THE SKINNY
Quietly working themselves closer to the top of the Eastern Conference, the Pacers face the Miami Heat for the first time this season. While still up and down, the Pacers have managed to put together a 7-game win streak at Banker's Life Fieldhouse. They also cut Sam Young, the designated "Lebron-stopper," and signed Dominic McGuire to a 10-day contract. It was a chippy series the last time these two met and the Pacers have had trouble against the better teams in the NBA. It will be a tough but winnable game.
THE LINEUPS
Point Guard
George Hill looks to be unaffected by the thigh injury he sustained a few games ago, playing at the same high level he has all season. Most impressively, Hill is turning it over only 1.8 times a game, posting better than a 3:1 assist-to-turnover ratio. As long as he doesn't let Mario Chalmers get going from deep, Hill should carry a definite advantage in this matchup.
Shooting Guard
The emergence of Lance Stephenson thus far in the year has helped mitigate the loss of Granger. He's cut down on his sillier decisions, and is shooting the ball consistently. His creativity could give Dwyane Wade a challenge. For the Pacers to have a chance, Lance needs to limit his mistakes and keep up with the athleticism of the Heat wings.
Small Forward
Paul George had a great December, but his last two games have been more shaky. He posted less than double-figures in both games, going for a combined 8-29 (a horrible 27.5%). While circumstances may have conspired against him, he needs to show the bounceback ability that other all-stars possess. His defensive assignment is the reigning MVP. While James' ankle is in question, there hasn't been an indication he won't play this game.
Power Forward
Like Paul, David West is going through a cold spell of his own. He posted 10-40 in his last three games. He must get back on track against an opponent that can play very good defense. He seems to be forcing his shots a little, with the majority of his bread and butter clanking off the back of the rim. Hopefully he can soften up his release and get them to drop as silky as we're used to.
Center
It will be interesting t see how Roy Hibbert matches up against the much more athletic Chris Bosh in the Heat's "positionless" scheme. Bosh has range out to the three-point line, which takes away a lot of Hibbert's defensive tools. On offense, Hibbert has to find a way to establish himself as a threat to take pressure off of his teammates. He showed his all-star form against Milwaukee. He needs to carry that performance over.
THE BENCH
DJ might see some time next to George Hill like in Milwaukee. The Pacers bench has been searching for consistency. The Heat bench has scoring options, as old as they may be. Ian Mahinmi and Tyler Hansbrough will play big roles in this game given the athleticism deficit of the starting bigs.
THE COACHES
Frank Vogel inked himself an extension and now needs to prove he's worth it. He has the team back on track after a rough start, and has had 3 days to prepare for the upcoming matchup.
THE INJURY REPORT
Pacers
Danny Granger: Knee - No.
Heat
Lebron James: Ankle - Probably.
THE HEAVY MATTERS
-Fight on the boards. After good help defense, someone needs to be there to clean up the boards.
-Stay out of foul trouble. Whatever there is to be said about officiating has been said. Defend without fouling.
THE TRADITION
