In a game that showcased the Philadelphia 76ers' firepower, the Indiana Pacers couldn't keep up, falling 135-114. Joel Embiid made a triumphant return, contributing an efficient 27 points in just 26 minutes.
However, it was Tyrese Maxey who stole the spotlight, dazzling fans with 32 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists-all without stepping onto the court in the fourth quarter. Maxey's ability to generate offense, especially in transition, proved crucial for the Sixers, hinting at their postseason potential if they can maintain this synergy.
The Pacers, on the other hand, continued to struggle defensively, marking their third straight game conceding over 130 points. Despite snapping a streak of allowing 30+ points per quarter by holding the Sixers to 29 in the final frame, the defensive lapses were evident.
Offensively, Andrew Nembhard and Micah Potter led the Pacers with 23 points each, with Potter achieving a career high. Kam Jones chipped in with 13 points, continuing to impress during his rookie season. Jarace Walker had a tough night shooting but contributed 10 rebounds and 6 assists, showcasing his ability to impact the game beyond scoring.
Off the court, the spotlight was on Rick Carlisle, who addressed a recent $100,000 fine related to the league's Player Participation Policy. Carlisle critiqued the NBA's process, particularly the handling of Andrew Nembhard and Aaron Nesmith's situations. The league responded but didn't directly refute Carlisle's points, highlighting ongoing tensions around the policy's enforcement.
Looking ahead, the Pacers face the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday. The Hornets, riding a hot streak, are no longer the same team the Pacers defeated twice earlier this season. They've surged into playoff contention with a 9-game winning streak before the All-Star break.
In terms of injuries, there's a glimmer of hope for the Pacers as Obi Toppin is upgraded to questionable, potentially marking his return since a foot injury. His availability could be a boost as the Pacers aim to regain momentum.
Stay tuned for updates on player availability as the Pacers prepare for a challenging matchup against the Hornets.
Pacers vs. Hornets
- Where: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
- When: Thursday, February 26, 2026 - 7:00 p.m.
ET
- TV: FanDuel Sports Network
- Radio: 93.5/107.5 The Fan
- Odds: Pacers +12.5
Projected Starters for the Pacers:
- Andrew Nembhard
- Kam Jones
- Ben Sheppard
- Jarace Walker
- Jay Huff
Injury Report:
- Andrew Nembhard (back) - questionable
- Obi Toppin (hammy) - questionable
- Pascal Siakam (wrist) - doubtful
- Aaron Nesmith (ankle) - out
- Ivica Zubac (ankle) - out
- Johnny Furphy (knee) - out
- Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles) - out