THE SKINNY
The Pacers have been faltering despite valiant efforts. The team has to adjust on the fly, as lack of proper preparation and rest is taking its toll on the young squad. The Houston Rockets have had 3 days of rest and are fresh while the Pacers have played 2 games in that span. One thing the Pacers can be thankful for is that the Rockets don't have Dirk Nowitzki.
THE LINEUPS
Point Guard
Darren Collison's defense doesn't seem to be at its most solid right now. Perhaps it's just his relative inexperience going up against what is a very strong era for point guards. He has had difficulty in the pick-and-roll (which is also the fault of the bigs) and his usual size disadvantages are revealed for everyone to see. His shooting has taken a dip as of late, and he has a tendency to disappear in key stretches. He is facing Kyle Lowry, who is currently in a very good stretch, putting up all-star numbers in the last two games.
Shooting Guard
Brandon Rush can defend, but sometimes the Pacers have to play 4-on-5 because of his lack of aggressiveness into driving and lack of sense when he's moving without the ball. His cuts tend to cause some congestion at times, and he could learn a thing or two from Mike Dunleavy in off-the-ball play. Kevin Martin is a prolific shooter, but if he is kept out of rhythm, the Rockets have a tough time getting their offense going.
Small Forward
Chase Budinger is a lengthy, talented shooter much like Danny Granger. What Granger must do in this game is take advantage of his versatility. He needs to hit the boards and play defense. It would also help if he were to hit some lay-ups without having to yell for a foul.
Power Forward
Josh McRoberts has to face one of the best international forwards this side of Pau Gasol. Luis Scola is a smart, efficient player who also has a motor. McRoberts needs to keep a body on him and make smart decisions on defense.
Center
Chuck Hayes may be short, but he's stronger than Roy Hibbert and knows how to grab boards despite his small stature. Hibbert will also have to face the savvy Brad Miller and perhaps even the lengthy Hasheem Thabeet. Hibbert is the key player for the Pacers this season. He must focus on consistency and figure out how to use his advantages to the fullest.
THE BENCH
Lance Stephenson had 6 assists in 12 minutes against Dallas. He has been promising throughout his first appearances. In this back-to-back his relatively fresh legs off the bench could be a real boost. Paul George is very consistent around the 8 points he averages for the year. The only things preventing him from being a good three-point shooter are his strength and mentality. He is deadly anytime he takes a step in.
THE COACHES
Interim coach Vogel has been preaching sounds basketball, but his players have not had the execution to match. The tradeoffs have made themselves clear. Now the team must account for them. Rick Adelman is a coach who always seems to have an overachieving team.
THE INJURY REPORT
Pacers
Mike Dunleavy - Thumb: No.
Sonics
Yao Ming - Cheap Material: No.
THE HEAVY MATTERS
-Start off strong. The Pacers were jumping on opponent early after the coaching change, but are now playing catch-up in the first halves of games.
-Play with confidence. A lot of shots aren't falling just because players are hesitating or aren't finishing strong.
THE TRADITION
