Indiana Pacers vs Phoenix-suns Picks and Predictions January 4th 2025

On 3-Game Slide, Suns Take on Improving Pacers

The Phoenix Suns kick off a crucial three-game Eastern Conference road trip on Saturday when they visit the Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis.

Suns Aim to End Skid

Phoenix enters the matchup on a three-game losing streak and has dropped six of its last seven games. The Suns are currently two games below .500 and sit in 11th place in the Western Conference, 1 1/2 games out of the final play-in spot.

Kevin Durant has been a consistent bright spot during this stretch, averaging 32.1 points per game over the last seven contests, an increase from his season average of 27.7 points. However, the Suns have struggled without Devin Booker, who missed five of those games due to a groin injury sustained in their last matchup against Indiana.

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In Tuesday’s 117-112 loss to Memphis, Booker returned but had a tough shooting night, scoring 16 points with nine assists while going just 4-for-20 from the field.

“I got a lot of good looks. I think just playing a few more games and getting back to regular minutes (will help shots go in), but there’s no excuse for it,” Booker said. “Frustration level is high. We realize these games are going to cost us at the end of the season. So you want to do your work early, pre-All-Star break.”

Pacers Building Momentum

The Pacers have shown improvement after a rocky start to the season, entering Saturday’s contest at one game below .500 and in eighth place in the Eastern Conference. Indiana secured a 128-115 road win against Miami on Thursday, showcasing their offensive prowess.

Tyrese Haliburton led the way with 33 points, including six 3-pointers, and 15 assists. It was his second game with at least 31 points in Indiana’s last three outings and his first double-double since Dec. 23.

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle praised Haliburton’s growth, particularly his ability to balance scoring and facilitating.

“For him, developing the feel of when to be the aggressive scorer when he gets on a run like this and when to facilitate and get other guys involved… that’s going to continue to be the balance,” Carlisle said. “He’s such a unique player.”

Haliburton, the NBA’s assists leader last season with 10.9 per game, is averaging 8.8 assists this season alongside 18.1 points per game.

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Previous Meeting

The Suns and Pacers last met on Dec. 19, when Indiana earned a 120-111 road win. Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 25 points and 18 rebounds, while Haliburton added 13 points and 12 assists. Durant paced Phoenix with 37 points, but the Suns couldn’t overcome Indiana’s balanced attack, which featured seven players scoring in double figures.

Key Storylines

• Phoenix’s Challenges: With Booker regaining his rhythm after injury, the Suns must address their defensive lapses and inconsistent bench production.
• Indiana’s Strengths: The Pacers’ offense, led by Haliburton, is finding its stride. Siakam’s interior presence and rebounding dominance will also be critical.
• Durant vs. Pacers’ Defense: Durant’s scoring ability will test Indiana’s defense once again after his 37-point performance in their previous matchup.

Both teams are looking to build momentum as they head toward the All-Star break, making Saturday’s game a pivotal clash for their respective playoff aspirations.