Charlotte Hornets vs Indiana Pacers: Key NBA Clash on February 26, 2026
The Charlotte Hornets are set to battle the Indiana Pacers on February 26, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in a pivotal NBA regular-season game. Both franchises are grappling with significant injury concerns that could dramatically influence the outcome of this contest. The Hornets, currently holding a 27-31 record and sitting in 10th place in the Eastern Conference, view this matchup as a critical opportunity to bolster their position in the play-in tournament race. Conversely, the Pacers, with a dismal 15-44 record and languishing at the bottom of the conference standings, are focused on managing a challenging stretch with a severely limited roster due to multiple absences.
Injury Report for Charlotte Hornets and Indiana Pacers
The injury reports reveal substantial hurdles for both squads ahead of this encounter. For the Charlotte Hornets, several players are sidelined, including Tosan Evbuomwan, PJ Hall, Liam McNeeley, Antonio Reeves, and Tidjane Salaun, all listed as out due to G League assignments or injuries like McNeeley's left ankle sprain. However, the team receives a boost with star players LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller confirmed as available for action.
The Indiana Pacers face even more daunting challenges, with key contributors Johnny Furphy, Tyrese Haliburton, Aaron Nesmith, and Ivica Zubac all ruled out due to injuries such as right ACL and Achilles tears. Additionally, Pascal Siakam is marked as doubtful with a left wrist sprain, while players like Andrew Nembhard and Obi Toppin are listed as questionable. The absence of Haliburton, who typically orchestrates the offense, is a major blow, potentially forcing increased reliance on players like Jarace Walker if Siakam also misses the game.
Head-to-Head Record and Team Statistics
Historically, the Indiana Pacers have dominated the regular-season series, winning 76 out of 132 games against the Charlotte Hornets. This season, they have continued that trend by securing victories in both previous meetings, including a narrow 114-112 win on January 8, 2026, where Siakam excelled with 30 points and 14 rebounds. His uncertain status for this rematch adds an element of intrigue to the rivalry.
A comparison of team statistics for the 2025-26 season highlights distinct strengths and weaknesses. The Charlotte Hornets rank 4th in points scored per game at 115.6 and excel in three-point shooting with a 37.5% accuracy rate, also placing 4th. They are solid defensively, allowing 113.7 points per game, which ranks 10th. In contrast, the Indiana Pacers struggle offensively, scoring only 111.5 points per game (25th) and shooting 34.9% from three-point range (18th). Defensively, they are vulnerable, conceding 119.2 points per game, ranking 25th in the league.
Key Players to Watch in the Game
For the Charlotte Hornets, LaMelo Ball is a dynamic playmaker, averaging 18.6 points and 6.7 assists per game. Brandon Miller leads the team in scoring with 21.9 points per game and contributes significantly from beyond the arc, making 3.3 three-pointers on average. Rookie sensation Kon Knueppel adds firepower with 19.7 points per game, while Moussa Diabaté anchors the boards with 7.1 rebounds per contest.
The Indiana Pacers will look to Pascal Siakam, if available, who averages 17.3 points per game. Jarace Walker provides scoring punch with 13.9 points per game, and Andrew Nembhard, when healthy, contributes 13.5 points and 6.4 assists. Kam Jones is another rotational player who could step up in this depleted lineup.
Game Outlook and Predictions
Given the injury scenarios, the Charlotte Hornets enter this game with a more stable and available lineup, positioning them as favorites. Their offensive prowess and defensive solidity should give them an edge over the Indiana Pacers, who are missing crucial pieces like Haliburton and potentially Siakam. For Indiana to remain competitive, they will need exceptional performances from role players and must capitalize on any defensive lapses by Charlotte. Overall, if the Hornets maintain their typical level of play, they are poised to secure a victory and strengthen their playoff aspirations.
