On Wednesday night, the Indiana Pacers and Charlotte Hornets entered their contests with vastly different goals. The Pacers, in theory, could steal the third seed away from the New York Knicks if they offer a massive late-season push, and their lead over the Detroit Pistons isn't massive, so winning remains a priority.
The Hornets, on the other hand, have shut down their two best players in Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball for the remainder of the season and are content to lose games and land the best draft pick possible.
With those motivations in mind, it makes sense that the Pacers jumped out to a lead midway through the first quarter and never looked back, winning 119-105.
Tyrese Haliburton led the way for the Pacers with a 22-point double-double and managed to do so without registering a single turnover.
Related: Most Likely Scenarios After Indiana Pacers Clinch Playoff Spot
Off the bench, Jarace Walker continued to be reliable, scoring ten points and proving that he deserves more minutes during Indiana's playoff run.
Without Ball and Miller, the Hornets were led by MIles Bridges' 18 points. Charlotte actually shot better than the Pacers from 3-point range and won the rebounding battle, but 18 turnovers piled up, and the Pacers were able to take much better care of the ball.
Indiana's efficient offense, spearheaded by Haliburton, could be their calling card in a playoff push. Fans will have to hold their breath, though, as a final game against the Cleveland Cavaliers likely won't set the standings, but it could set the tone for a Pacers' effort in the postseason.
Check out the All Pacers homepage for more news, analysis, and must-read articles.
Related: Indiana Pacers' Young Star Showing Value Before Playoffs and NBA Offseason
Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
This story was originally published April 3, 2025 at 10:32 AM.