Get Ready for an Exciting Clash! The Indiana Pacers are set to take on the Toronto Raptors in a thrilling showdown within the Eastern Conference.
Matchup Overview
Scheduled for January 13, 2026, at 7 p.m. EST in Indianapolis, this game features the fourth-ranked Toronto Raptors (with a record of 24 wins and 17 losses) against the struggling Indiana Pacers, who sit at the bottom of the conference with only 8 wins and 31 losses.
Key Insights
As they prepare for their matchup, it’s important to note that the Pacers have struggled against fellow Eastern Conference teams, holding a record of 7-19. They particularly struggle in close games, with a dismal 4-18 record in matches decided by 10 points or more. Meanwhile, the Raptors have found success with a solid 21-12 record against Eastern opponents. On average, they score an impressive 53.0 points per game in the paint, largely due to Scottie Barnes, who leads the team with an average of 11.3 points in that area.
In terms of three-point shooting, the Pacers average 12.5 made shots from beyond the arc each game, which is just slightly less than the 12.7 three-pointers the Raptors allow. Interestingly, Toronto has its own three-point game going, averaging 11.6 made shots per game, which is 0.2 more than what the Pacers typically permit.
This matchup will mark the third encounter between these two teams this season. The previous game took place on November 27, where the Raptors narrowly clinched victory with a score of 97-95. In that contest, Brandon Ingram was a standout player for Toronto, scoring an impressive 26 points, while T.J. McConnell led Indiana with 16 points.
Star Players to Watch
For the Pacers, Andrew Nembhard has been a bright spot, shooting at 44.5% and averaging 17.6 points per game. Pascal Siakam has also been performing well for the Raptors, boasting an average of 21.3 points over the last 10 games. Additionally, Scottie Barnes contributes significantly with averages of 19.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. Immanuel Quickley has also been noteworthy, averaging 18.5 points in his recent performances.
Recent Performance
Looking at their last 10 games, the Pacers have not fared well, securing only 2 victories against 7 losses. They are averaging 115.8 points, alongside 39.5 rebounds, 29.8 assists, 8.6 steals, and 3.8 blocks per game, while maintaining a shooting percentage of 48.6%. However, their opponents have managed to outscore them with an average of 120.5 points. On the other hand, the Raptors have a better record of 6-4 in their last 10 outings, averaging 115.2 points, 44.9 rebounds, and 29.2 assists per game, with a shooting accuracy of 44.6%. Their opponents have averaged 114.5 points per game.
Injury Updates
In terms of injuries, the Pacers will be missing several key players: Bennedict Mathurin (thumb), Obi Toppin (foot), Isaiah Jackson (concussion), and Tyrese Haliburton, who is out for the season due to an Achilles injury. The Raptors are also facing challenges with Jakob Poeltl (back), Chucky Hepburn (knee), RJ Barrett (ankle), and Ja'Kobe Walter (hip) all listed as out.
Discussion Point
As fans gear up for this Eastern Conference battle, there are plenty of questions to ponder. Will the Raptors continue their winning streak against the struggling Pacers? Or could Indiana pull off an upset? Share your thoughts below—do you think the Pacers can turn their season around, or is it all but over for them?
