Last night the starters for the Indiana Pacers came out flat, unenergetic, and looked like they didn’t want to play the Charlotte Hornets. Tonight was a complete 180 degree turn in their 111-94 dominating victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. After the first quarter, the blue and gold would have a 32-19 advantage with Domantas Sabonis scoring 10 points. Myles Turner, Malcolm Brogdon, and and Kelan Martin all contributed in the first period with five points.
The second quarter was much more evenly played from both teams. In fact, the Pelicans were able to outscore Indiana…by one point. Much like the first quarter, the Pacers would have another player scoring double figures in a quarter courtesy of Justin Holliday. The veteran wing would score eleven of the 26 points for the Pacers.
As the blue and gold came out of the locker room following intermission, they would extend their lead to 17 points at 68-51. The Pelicans would quickly answer and cut their deficit to a dozen with 8:23 left, resulting in a timeout called by Rick Carlisle. Coming out of the timeout the Pacers would outscore New Orleans the next 4:50 by eleven to go up by 26. At the end of the third, the Pacers would be on top by 32 at 96-64 for their largest lead of the season. Myles Turner would have another incredible highlight to add to his reel for the season.
Just like last night in Charlotte, not one of the starters for the Pacers would see a single second of game time in the fourth quarter. They were led in scoring by Domantas Sabonis (20p/10r/6a), Justin Holiday (17p), and Malcolm Brogdon (16p). Also worth noting that Myles turner finished one rebound shy of a double-double next to his 11 points and two blocks.
The Pacers hit the road for one game against one of the more exciting teams so far this season in the Chicago Bulls on Monday. This will be the first or four games between the two teams. Tip-off is scheduled for 8pm EST from the United Center in Chicago. Coverage on the Bally Sports Indiana and the Indiana Pacers Radio Network starts at 7:30pm EST.
