The Indiana Pacers’ Red-Hot Run: Key Wins, Star Performances, and Playoff Aspirations

On a recent episode of Harrison Talks Pod, I discussed the recent success of the Indiana Pacers. This post is a continuation of that discussion from this week. If you want the full discussion, including some bold predictions, check it out here

The Indiana Pacers are making serious noise in the Eastern Conference, riding a wave of strong performances in 2025. With a dominant 17-6 record this calendar year, the Pacers have turned heads with key wins over the Clippers and Raptors while remaining competitive against top-tier opponents like the Nuggets. With Tyrese Haliburton leading the charge, Pascal Siakam providing stability, and Myles Turner anchoring both ends of the court, Indiana looks primed to make a serious push for a top-four seed in the East.

Statement Wins Show Pacers’ Growth

Pacers 129, Clippers 111 – Balanced Attack Leads the Way

In a dominant victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, Indiana showcased its depth and high-powered offense. Tyrese Haliburton delivered a masterclass performance with 29 points and 12 assists, including an amazing 17-point third quarter that blew the game wide open. Myles Turner’s return from injury provided an instant boost as he dropped 17 first-half points, stabilizing the Pacers on both ends.

• Shooting Efficiency: Indiana shot an elite 54.8% from the field (46-of-84).

• Third-Quarter Surge: The Pacers outscored LA 35-28, turning a competitive game into a rout.

• Depth on Display: Seven Pacers finished in double figures, with Aaron Nesmith stepping up for a season-high 19 points.

Even against a shorthanded Clippers team missing Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell, Indiana’s ability to limit scoring options beyond James Harden (31 points, 11 assists) and Ivica Zubac (22 points) showcased their improving defensive discipline.

Pacers 116, Nuggets 125 – Battling a Championship-Caliber Team

Despite falling to the defending champion Denver Nuggets, the Pacers showed resilience in a 125-116 loss. Myles Turner led the way with 23 points, while Haliburton contributed 19 points and 15 assists. Indiana struggled to contain Nikola Jokić’s playmaking, as he recorded 18 points, 19 assists (career-high), and 9 rebounds, leading a Nuggets team that dominated the paint (74-46 advantage) and the glass (46-32 rebounding edge).

• Indiana’s Strength in Shooting: The Pacers hit 14-of-43 threes, staying competitive despite Denver’s efficiency.

• Key Second-Quarter Run: Indiana cut the lead to 56-55 before a Nuggets response put them back on top.

• Final Push Falls Short: Down 115-108, the Pacers couldn’t complete the comeback as Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun sealed the game.

Pacers 111, Raptors 91 – Haliburton’s Explosive Night

Following a tough loss to Denver, Indiana bounced back with a 111-91 victory over the Toronto Raptors, once again led by Haliburton’s brilliance. Haliburton dropped 33 points and 11 assists, torching Toronto’s defense with 12-of-15 shooting from the field and 7-of-9 from deep.

Myles Turner played a crucial role, recording 18 points, 10 rebounds, and a perfect 5-of-5 from three-point range. Pascal Siakam added 15 points and 8 rebounds, providing consistency against his former team.

• Three-Point Mastery: The Pacers shot 15-of-36 (41.7%) from deep, while Toronto struggled at 6-of-27 (22.2%).

• Defensive Clamps: Indiana held Toronto to just 91 points, proving they can dominate on both ends.

• Closing Strong: A late Raptors push was quickly silenced by clutch threes from Haliburton and Turner, extending the lead to 103-86 with four minutes left.

Why the Pacers Are Thriving

1. Tyrese Haliburton’s Superstar Leap

Haliburton’s recent numbers, especially his assist numbers, are certainly improving:

• Averaging 17.2 PPG and 8.2 APG in February.

• Elite efficiency: Shooting 45.9% FG and 39.4% from three.

• Clutch leadership: His takeover performances, including a 17-point third quarter vs. the Clippers and a 33-point explosion vs. the Raptors, have powered Indiana’s offense.

2. Myles Turner’s All-Around Impact

Turner’s return has brought much-needed stability:

• Defensive anchor: Improved rim protection and rebounding.

• Stretch big dominance: Shooting 54.9% FG and an amazing 65.7% TS in February.

• Key performances: 18 points, 10 rebounds vs. Toronto; 23 points vs. Denver.

3. Pascal Siakam’s Veteran Presence

Since joining Indiana, Siakam has provided a steady two-way presence:

• February averages: 20.1 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 2.9 APG.

• Takes pressure off Haliburton, creating a balanced offensive attack.

• Post-All-Star Break dominance: Improving defensive efficiency and rebounding numbers.

4. Improved Defense and Role Player Contributions

• Winning percentage jump: From .400 in October to .833 in January.

• Defensive efficiency boost: Opponents shoot just 45.5% in Pacers’ wins vs. 49.7% in losses.

• Strong interior presence: Defensive rebounding improved (33.6 home, 34.9 road).

• Key role players stepping up: Nesmith (9.0 PPG, 0.9 SPG), Toppin (13.0 PPG, 5.3 RPG), Nembhard (47.1% FG, 95.5% FT).

Looking Ahead: Can the Pacers Secure a Top-Four Seed?

With a favorable upcoming schedule (22nd easiest per Tankathon) and momentum on their side, Indiana has a prime opportunity to solidify its standing in the Eastern Conference. If Haliburton continues his All-NBA-level play, Turner remains a force inside, and Siakam provides veteran leadership, the Pacers could very well find themselves with home-court advantage in the playoffs.

Next Up: Pacers vs. Miami Heat – A Crucial Test on Friday Night