Nets Seek Redemption Against Pacers in Key Eastern Conference Clash

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The Brooklyn Nets will face off against the Indiana Pacers tonight at 5 p.m. EST at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, marking their final meeting of the 2024-25 season. The Nets are aiming to even up the season series after losing 105-99 in an overtime thriller on Thursday.

Currently, the Nets sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 23-47, while the Pacers have surged to fourth place, boasting a 40-29 record. The Nets will enter the matchup as 10-point underdogs, with the game’s over/under set at 219 points.

Key to tonight’s game for Brooklyn is the defense against rising star Bennedict Mathurin. In the last encounter, Mathurin delivered a standout performance with 28 points and 16 rebounds in the absence of Tyrese Haliburton, who may not play again tonight. Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez noted, “Stopping Mathurin must be our priority if we want to win this game.”

Another element for the Nets will be the return of Cameron Johnson, who was rested during the last game. Johnson, not listed on the injury report, is poised to provide a significant boost to Brooklyn’s offense. “Cameron’s scoring ability is vital for us right now,” Fernandez added. “His presence on the court changes the dynamic of our game.”

Following Thursday’s defeat, the Nets struggled with free throw performance, converting significantly less than their opponents. “We need to be more aggressive and draw fouls,” Fernandez stated, emphasizing the need to balance the free throw attempts going into tonight’s match.

In their last game against the Pacers, Brooklyn’s lack of scoring depth showed as they managed just 99 points. “We have to find ways to get to the rim and convert,” said D'Angelo Russell, who mentioned the need for more offensive cohesion.

The anticipated starting lineup for the Nets includes Russell at point guard, with Ziaire Williams, Keon Johnson, Cameron Johnson, and Nic Claxton rounding out the starting five. Meanwhile, for Indiana, Andrew Nembhard, Mathurin, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, and Myles Turner are expected to start.

Both teams have experienced streaky patterns this season, with the Pacers entering the game having won their last three matches and looking to tighten their grip on a playoff position. “Every win counts as we look to solidify our standing in the playoff race,” said Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle.

As the Nets aim to halt their downward spiral, with a 2-12 record since mid-February, the stakes are high. A win tonight could reshape their final stretch of the season. Following this game, Brooklyn is set to return home for a matchup against the Dallas Mavericks on March 24.

Fans can tune in to the action on YES Network, NBA League Pass, or WFAN (660 AM/101.9 FM).