The Pacers gave it their all against the Bucks, keeping fans on the edge of their seats with a halftime lead. But in the final minutes of the third quarter and the opening minutes of the fourth, the Bucks found their rhythm, turning a tight game into an 18-point advantage. This stretch ultimately handed the Pacers their 13th straight loss, with a final score of 134-123.
Aaron Nesmith was a standout performer, lighting up the first half with 24 points in just 20 minutes. He's been stepping up lately, especially with Pascal Siakam sidelined due to a knee sprain.
Nesmith hit a career-high 32 points on 14 shots, including an impressive 7-of-10 from beyond the arc and a perfect 5-for-5 from the line. However, after playing just 8 minutes in the third quarter, his night was done.
Jarace Walker continued to impress, delivering a solid performance amidst the team's fluctuating lineups. He contributed 14 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and crucially, no turnovers. One highlight was a slick assist to Nesmith for a dunk, and a remarkable left-handed three-pointer to close the third quarter, dodging Giannis in the process.
Jalen Slawson faced a baptism by fire, tasked with guarding Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite Giannis scoring 31 points, Slawson held his own, showing grit against the Greek Freak, who left the game with a knee tweak after a dunk in the second half.
Ivica Zubac and Myles Turner added their efforts, with Zubac posting 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists in 24 minutes, while Turner chipped in 13 points and 4 rebounds, sinking three treys. Postgame, Turner and Nesmith shared insights on their matchups and team dynamics.
TJ McConnell, making a rare start, looked comfortable alongside Zubac, finishing with 9 points and 11 assists. He also snagged his 900th career steal.
A nifty behind-the-back pass from Zubac to McConnell showcased their chemistry, leading to a Nesmith three-pointer. Despite the Pacers hitting 21 of 42 from deep, the Bucks countered with 23 of 44, tipping the scales in their favor.
Looking ahead, the Pacers head to New York to face the Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Jalen Brunson is questionable with an ankle issue, which could impact the Knicks' lineup. The Pacers, dealing with a lengthy injury list, will aim to break their 13-game skid, although the Knicks are favored to extend it to 14.
Pacers vs. Knicks
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
- When: Tuesday, March 17, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
ET
- TV: FanDuel Sports Network
- Radio: 93.5/107.5 The Fan
- Odds: Pacers +16.5
Projected Starters
- Pacers: TJ McConnell, Aaron Nesmith, Jarace Walker, Jalen Slawson, Ivica Zubac
- Knicks: Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns
Injuries
- Pacers: Ivica Zubac (ankle) - questionable, Aaron Nesmith (ankle) - questionable, Andrew Nembhard (back) - questionable, TJ McConnell (hammy) - questionable, Obi Toppin (foot) - questionable, Quentin Jackson (calf) - questionable, Ben Sheppard (ankle) - questionable, Micah Potter (tricep) - questionable, Pascal Siakam (knee) - doubtful, Johnny Furphy (knee) - out, Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles) - out
The Pacers hope to channel their past success at MSG, where they last secured a win, into snapping this losing streak. But with the Knicks favored, it’s going to be a battle.