The anticipation for Sunday’s game against the Grizzlies is tinged with a bit of concern for the Pacers as they face some key player absences. Myles Turner, the Pacers’ star center, will be sidelined due to mid-back spasms, while backup point guard T.J. McConnell is questionable as he tends to his sick child. Joining them on the sidelines is All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who will miss his fourth straight game and 10th in the last 11 due to a strained left hamstring. Although there is hope for Haliburton’s return, the team will have to rely on other players to step up and fill the void in the meantime.
Despite missing just one game all season leading up to Sunday, Turner’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, considering his impressive stats of averaging 17.2 points and leading the team in rebounding with 7.0 per game. Jalen Smith is expected to start in Turner’s place, but he’s also dealing with his own low back spasms. If Smith is unable to play, Isaiah Jackson will be the next in line to step up.
Meanwhile, McConnell has been a standout off the bench, with impressive numbers of 8.0 points, 5.5 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, showcasing his valuable contributions to the team. The Pacers will need other players to step up in their absence, and this presents an opportunity for the rest of the team to showcase their skills and make an impact on the court. The team will undoubtedly be looking to rally together and find ways to overcome the absence of these key players in Sunday’s game.
