The Indiana Pacers have won five consecutive games and seven of their last eight. With just a few weeks remaining in the regular season, the Pacers hold the No. 4 seed in the East and are still in a three-team battle for homecourt advantage with the Milwaukee Bucks and Detroit Pistons. On Wednesday, they will have an opportunity to secure another victory against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Both teams met up once so far this season back in February. This game culminated in a seven-point victory for Los Angeles. However, while the Pacers are red-hot right now as they approach the postseason, the Lakers are struggling as they have lost three straight games and are 3-7 in their last 10 games. The Lakers own the No. 5 seed in the West but can climb up the standings if they finish the year strong.
There are no surprises to the Pacers’ injury report. However, with Quenton Jackson listed as probable, his status could potentially be worth monitoring as he has already appeared in six games so far this month and might be in line for another appearance.
After a 12-game absence beginning at the end of February, Lakers forward Rui Hachimura made his on-court return on March 22 against the Chicago Bulls. While he is still on the team’s injury report because of his knee, he is listed as probable against Indiana.
Less than a week ago, Lakers rookie Bronny James enjoyed a career night against the Milwaukee Bucks, recording 17 points on 7-for-10 shooting, three rebounds, five assists, and a block. However, while it seems like he is coming into his own, the USC alum will be out against the Pacers due to a G League assignment.
After suffering a groin injury against the Boston Celtics near the beginning of the month, LeBron James missed seven games before making his return. The four-time MVP is still on the Lakers’ injury report, but he is listed as probable.
The Lakers acquired Maxi Kleber as part of the blockbuster Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis swap. However, Kleber has yet to suit up for the Lakers after undergoing foot surgery earlier this year. While there is still a chance for the German native to make his Lakers debut this season, it will not happen on Wednesday as he has already been ruled out.
