Pacers face Pistons as preseason hits midpoint

The Indiana Pacers return home tonight to face the Detroit Pistons in the fourth of seven preseason games before the season begins on Oct. 28 v. Toronto.

It’s hard to believe that the Pacers preseason is only at the midpoint with the season just two weeks away, but that’s where we are, and it’s basketball night in Indiana as the Pacers host the Pistons.

It was one week ago today that Indiana was in Detroit at the Palace where they beat their Central Division foes 115-112 behind 32 points from Paul George on 10-17 shooting. This was the game PG started out 7-7 with 20 points in the first quarter mind you, which means he went 3-10 the rest of the game. Expect a more consistent performance this time around.

George was primarily responsible for beating Marcus Morris on the offensive end, and though he was vocal before about being against the change to small ball, this was also the game that changed his tune. With Morris on him to start, he lit up the floor. The Pistons would later switch Stanley Johnson to George in trying to limit his explosiveness, but the damage was already done.

Oct 8, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) takes a shot against Orlando Magic center Dewayne Dedmon (3) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeated Orlando 97-92. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

The injury news has yet to be released, but Chase Budinger could take to the floor as a member of the Indiana Pacers for the first time tonight, assuming he’s been cleared. It would also be nice to see George Hill back on the floor, though Monta Ellis did a fine job running point last Thursday.

The Indiana Pacers take on the Pistons tonight at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, tipoff set for 7 pm ET.

EDIT: Per 8 Points, 9 Seconds, Joe Young and Solomon Hill are out, Monta Ellis is doubtful, and George Hill is questionable.

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