The Indiana Pacers walked into Atlanta on Monday night with energy and early momentum, only to see the game slip through their fingers as the second half turned into an offensive surge by the Hawks.
Indiana opened the contest with a spirited effort, pushing out to a meaningful lead in the second quarter by capitalizing on transition opportunities and aggressive ball movement. Pascal Siakam led the way with a strong all-around effort, finishing with 26 points and nine rebounds while showing his veteran versatility on both ends of the floor. Andrew Nembhard added his usual steady hand, chipping in 18 points and four assists, and Jarace Walker contributed with versatile scoring and defensive activity.
But the Hawks, undeterred by a shaky first half, found a rhythm in the third quarter. A 25-7 run put Atlanta ahead just before the final period, led by sharp shooting and playmaking from Dyson Daniels, who finished with 22 points and nine assists. CJ McCollum and Nickeil Alexander-Walker provided scoring punch off the bench, helping Atlanta stretch the lead and close the night with a 132-116 victory.
What stood out in this one was the Pacers’ ability to build momentum against a team with playoff aspirations. Indiana showed competitiveness in spurts and demonstrated the kind of effort that keeps games close late. Yet, execution in crunch time and defensive rotations allowed the Hawks to seize control and outscore Indiana when it mattered most.
The loss drops the Pacers further down the standings, but there were moments that deserve attention. Siakam continues to shoulder a heavy load, and the younger players are finding moments to contribute. This kind of resilience lays groundwork for the future, even if the scoreboard didn’t swing in Indiana’s favor on this night.
Up next, the Pacers return home to face the Bulls Wednesday in a chance to build on the positives and tighten up the areas that slipped away in Atlanta.
