The Indiana Pacers defied all odds on Monday night, fielding a skeleton crew of just six healthy players to push the Atlanta Hawks to the brink at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. With all five starters sidelined due to injury and illness, the depleted squad managed to keep the game competitive until the final seconds, ultimately falling 108-104. Center Onyeka Okongwu secured the victory for Atlanta with a crucial layup with 10 seconds remaining, marking the Pacers’ fifth consecutive loss and dropping their record to 2-6.
Six-man roster delivers historic double-double as Indiana falls short in 104-108 thriller
Former Purdue All-American Braden Smith delivered a career-defining performance in his first NBA start, posting a double-double with 19 points, 10 assists, four rebounds, and three steals. Smith, who had recorded only one point in his previous 18 NBA minutes, was thrust into the starting lineup just hours before tip-off. His leadership was matched by center Jay Huff, who scored 22 points, and guard Quenton Jackson, who added 20 points, as all six available Pacers contributed in double figures.
Despite the heroic effort from the reserves, the Hawks’ depth proved decisive, led by Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s game-high 34 points. Atlanta improved to 4-4 with the win, showcasing their ability to close out tight games against a severely compromised opponent. The result highlights the Pacers’ current fragility, but Smith’s breakout start offers a glimmer of future potential for a team currently battling a significant injury crisis.
Source: Yahoo Sports
