Game Preview
The Philadelphia 76ers (7-15) will look to extend their modest two-game winning streak when they host the Indiana Pacers (10-15) on Friday night. While the 76ers have struggled for consistency this season, hovering around a 32% win rate, their recent form suggests they may be rounding into form, having won 4 of their last 5 games.
A major driver of Philadelphia's recent success has been their improved defense. Over their last 5 games, the 76ers have held opponents to just 100 points per game, a marked improvement from allowing 110 points per contest on the season. This stingier defense has coincided with a slight uptick in rebounding, grabbing nearly 42 boards per game over this stretch compared to just over 40 for the year.
Offensively, the 76ers have remained steady, scoring just under 107 points per game during this hot stretch. Their shooting percentages have ticked up as well, connecting on just under 48% of their field goals and hovering around 33% from three, both improvements over their season-long marks.
The visiting Pacers, meanwhile, have struggled recently, dropping 4 of their last 5 games. However, their offensive firepower remains formidable, as they've averaged 139 points per game during this stretch. This impressive scoring output has been fueled by efficient shooting, with Indiana hitting nearly 49% of their shots and just under 38% from deep.
While the Pacers' offense has been prolific, their defensive struggles have persisted, allowing 118.6 points per game over their last 5 contests. They've also been plagued by turnovers, coughing up the ball over 18 times per game in this recent stretch.
With both teams trending in opposite directions of late, this matchup could come down to whether the surging 76ers defense can contain the high-powered Pacers offense. An intriguing battle in the paint also looms, as the 76ers have improved their rebounding while the Pacers have been crashing the boards hard, grabbing 47 rebounds per game over their last 5.