THE SKINNY
Last time these two teams faced off, the Pacers dropped a close one in Conseco Fieldhouse. Now the Pacers team has found some identity, competitiveness, and hunger, and leads the Bucks in the Central Division. Thus far in the season, the Pacers are 10-9, and look to put together some meaningful wins after their 2-2 road trip, which was disappointing for the team, a record that would have placated last year's. Hopefully the hunger continues into the playoffs.
THE LINEUPS
Point Guard
Darren Collison walked off an injury against the Raptors. His shooting is much improved from the beginning of the season, settling near his rookie marks. His assist numbers are down, but he is creating offense and pushing the tempo. Brandon Jennings can catch fire, but he's shooting inefficiently. He didn't explode against the Pacers in their last meeting, but he should still be contained. It doesn't matter if he gets his shots up, it just matters that every attempt is contested.
Shooting Guard
John Salmons is a difficult matchup given his length and shooting range. If there's anybody who's up to the task of defending him, it's the new-look Brandon Rush, coming off back-to-back 20-point games, including a 6-8 3-point shooting game against Raptors. Rush's strong performances recently may have vaulted him into a full-time job in the wings opposite Granger. He is attacking and if he keeps it up against the lengthy Bucks wings, he could live up to his draft expectations.
Small Forward
The numbers may not show it yet, but Granger is working much harder on the boards and on defense. Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (god bless you) is not the same player that Granger is, but his size can put a crimp on Granger's rebounding efforts. Granger should look to offensively attack Mbah a Moute with the dribble and patience inside, and then spread out with stepback jumpers and 3's.
Power Forward
Larry Sanders is an impressive rookie, particularly in regards to his shotblocking. Josh McRoberts is coming off of two double-digit scoring games, and his passing has gone unheralded, at 2.4 per game, along with a steal and a block. The power forward competition could get a little chippy with two guys who are high-energy with something to prove.
Center
Roy Hibbert faces one of his competitors in the field of East all-star center. Andrew Bogut is averaging a double-double with 2 and a half blocks a game, and can give Hibbert huge problems. Needless to say, this matchup is key for the game.
THE BENCH
The Bucks are notably thin in the post and in backcourt depth. The Pacers should look to capitalize with their strong backcourt rotation.
THE COACHES
Jim O'Brien may be winning support, but he needs to continue to make good decisions to earn an extension. Scott Skiles has been disappointed in a Bucks squad that made the playoffs last season and were expected to improve upon that.
THE INJURY REPORT
Pacers
None
Bucks
Drew Gooden - Foot: Out.
Carlos Delfino - Brain: Out.
Michael Redd - Knee: Out.
THE HEAVY MATTERS
-Limit turnovers, especially away.
-Get the defensive rebounds. Milwaukee gets their misses a lot.
THE TRADITION
