CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Indiana Pacers, led by Pascal Siakam’s all-around performance, ended their three-game losing streak with a convincing 115-99 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday night. Siakam tallied 25 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds, demonstrating his growing comfort in his role since his January 17 trade from the Toronto Raptors.
Despite a career-high 35 points from Hornets rookie Brandon Miller, Charlotte struggled with shooting efficiency, hitting just 39.8% from the field and 27.6% from beyond the arc. Aaron Nesmith contributed 22 points for the Pacers, while Myles Turner posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, boosting Indiana to a 28-23 record.
Tyrese Haliburton, still on a minutes restriction due to a hamstring injury, added 17 points in 20 minutes of play, signaling his valuable contribution to the team’s success.
Miller’s standout performance, including going 10 for 12 from the foul line and sinking five 3-pointers, was a silver lining for the Hornets, who have now lost seven straight games, five by double digits. P.J. Washington also added 22 points for Charlotte, now sitting at a 10-38 record.
The Pacers capitalized on the Hornets’ weakened lineup, missing key players like LaMelo Ball and Gordon Hayward, to establish an early lead they never relinquished. Despite a spirited attempt by the Hornets to close the gap in the fourth quarter, led by Miller’s 27 second-half points, Indiana’s strong start and consistent play sealed their victory.
Coach Rick Carlisle praised Andrew Nembhard’s start for the Pacers, noting his contribution to the team’s “ecosystem” despite not scoring. The Pacers’ strategy and execution proved too much for the Hornets, as they maintained their lead throughout the game, highlighted by Nesmith’s breakaway dunk to cement the win.
As the Pacers look ahead to hosting Houston, the Hornets face a challenging back-to-back against the Los Angeles Lakers, hoping to turn their fortunes around.
