Deadspin: Injury-Riddled Pacers Host Winless Nets as Both Teams Seek a Reset

Indiana seeks a turnaround

The Pacers lost 145-125 on the road to Miami on Friday, extending their losing streak to three games. They scored 42 points in the opening quarter, then managed 46 over the next two periods.

Indiana was without guards Tyrese Haliburton and T.J. McConnell, along with frontcourt players Obi Toppin and Ivica Zubac. Assistant Lloyd Pierce, filling in for Rick Carlisle, said the team needed to focus on defense and rebounding after its strong start faded.

Haliburton has averaged 21.8 points in four games since missing last season with an Achilles injury, but his hamstring strain has put him out week-to-week. McConnell is still rehabbing a hamstring injury, while Toppin has a back issue and Zubac an ankle injury.

Pacers rely on available leaders

Pascal Siakam leads Indiana with 22.2 points per game this season, and Andrew Nembhard averages 17.6. The two have helped guide the team over the past season-plus while avoiding injuries.

The Nets visit as Indiana begins a home back-to-back. The Pacers will try to end their skid despite the absences that have affected their lineup.

Brooklyn searches for first win

Brooklyn has lost its first five games for the second year in a row and is the last Eastern Conference team without a victory. The Nets lost 110-94 at home to Detroit on Friday, their lowest offensive output of the season.

Coach Jordi Fernandez said the team’s response to adversity has been a concern, not just its shooting. He said Brooklyn starts well but can lose energy when opponents push back.

Veterans guide rookie Brown

The Nets are in a rebuilding period after three straight seasons with at least 50 losses. Developing rookie lottery pick Mikel Brown Jr. is an important focus for the team.

Fernandez said he wants veterans Julius Randle and Michael Porter Jr. to help Brown, while leading in a way that feels natural to them. Randle leads Brooklyn with 21.0 points per game, Porter averages 20.8, and Brown has 10.3 points per game through four professional contests.