NBA Clash: Atlanta Hawks Take on Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis
The Indiana Pacers (12-36) are set to host the Atlanta Hawks (24-26) in what promises to be an electrifying NBA encounter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. This Saturday night matchup is generating significant buzz among basketball enthusiasts, with both teams looking to secure a vital victory as the season progresses.
Game Details and Broadcast Information
The highly anticipated game is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026, with tip-off at 7 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the action live on multiple platforms, ensuring no one misses a moment of this thrilling contest. The game will be televised on FDSSE, FDSIN, and WTHR-13, providing comprehensive coverage for local and regional viewers.
For those preferring digital streaming, the matchup will be available on Fubo and Prime Videos, offering flexible viewing options for basketball aficionados across the country. This multi-platform accessibility highlights the game's importance in the NBA calendar.
Betting Odds and Game Prediction
Sportsbooks are predicting a closely contested battle, with the Atlanta Hawks entering as narrow 1.5-point favorites. The over/under for total points scored is set at 231.5, indicating expectations for a high-scoring affair. On the moneyline, Indiana stands at +100 for an upset victory, while Atlanta is favored at -120 to win outright.
The Hawks bring impressive offensive credentials into this game, boasting the second-highest offensive output in the NBA over their last 25 road games, averaging 118.5 points per game. Their fast-paced style, ranking second in pace over the same period, could create numerous scoring opportunities against a Pacers defense that has struggled at times.
Indiana, however, has shown resilience, playing at the fourth-fastest pace in the league over their past 15 games. This tempo could lead to a back-and-forth contest with plenty of transition baskets. Additionally, the Pacers' home games have seen opposing small forwards attempt 4.0 free throws per game (fourth-most in the NBA), suggesting favorable conditions for drawing fouls and getting to the line.
Injury Report and Team Updates
Both teams are dealing with significant injury concerns that could impact the game's dynamics. The Atlanta Hawks will be without center Onyeka Okongwu, who is sidelined for his second consecutive game after undergoing a successful dental procedure following a fracture sustained against the Boston Celtics.
Their injury list extends further, with Zaccharie Risacher (knee), Kristaps Porzingis (Achilles), and N'Faly Dante (torn ACL, season-ending surgery) all ruled out. Jalen Johnson remains day-to-day with a calf issue, adding uncertainty to the Hawks' frontcourt rotation.
The Indiana Pacers are also missing key players, including star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is recovering from right Achilles surgery. Obi Toppin is out after undergoing surgery, further depleting their roster depth. These absences put additional pressure on the remaining players to step up and deliver strong performances.
Expected Starting Lineups
Atlanta Hawks:
- PG: Dyson Daniels
- SG: Nickeil Alexander-Walker
- SF: Corey Kispert
- PF: Jalen Johnson
- C: Christian Koloko
Indiana Pacers:
- PG: Andrew Nembhard
- SG: Bennedict Mathurin
- SF: Aaron Nesmith
- PF: Jarace Walker
- C: Pascal Siakam
These lineups reflect both teams' adjustments to injury challenges, with younger players and role players getting opportunities to shine in important minutes.
Context and Season Implications
The Pacers enter this game hoping to build on recent positive momentum, despite their challenging season record. Playing at home in Indianapolis provides an opportunity to capitalize on fan support and improve their standing. For the Hawks, this game represents a chance to solidify their position above .500 and make a push in the Eastern Conference standings.
With both teams featuring fast-paced offenses and dealing with defensive vulnerabilities due to injuries, fans can expect an entertaining, high-scoring contest. The combination of betting intrigue, injury narratives, and playoff implications makes this Hawks vs Pacers matchup one of the weekend's most compelling NBA games.
