The Spectrum Center in Charlotte is set for a crucial Eastern Conference matchup on Thursday, January 8, 2026, as the struggling Indiana Pacers visit the Charlotte Hornets. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. Eastern Time. This game pits two teams near the bottom of the conference standings, each desperate for a win but facing significant challenges.
Injury Crisis and Roster Impact for Both Sides
The Indiana Pacers arrive in North Carolina severely short-handed and mired in a deep slump. They are riding a 13-game losing streak and will be without their star point guard, Tyrese Haliburton, who is out for the season with a torn right Achilles tendon. The injury woes don't stop there. Key rotation players Bennedict Mathurin (right thumb sprain), Isaiah Jackson (concussion), and Obi Toppin (right foot stress fracture) are also unavailable.
This leaves massive gaps across the Pacers' lineup, thinning their ranks at guard, on the wing, and in the frontcourt. Andrew Nembhard is expected to shoulder the primary playmaking duties in Haliburton's absence.
For the Charlotte Hornets, the situation is comparatively better but not without concerns. Promising forward Brandon Miller is listed as questionable due to a knee issue. The frontcourt depth is compromised with Ryan Kalkbrenner (elbow) and Mason Plumlee (groin) ruled out. However, their core backcourt, led by LaMelo Ball, remains intact, giving them a clear health and depth advantage at home.
Team Stats and Key Players to Watch
A glance at the season statistics reveals why both teams find themselves in the lower tier of the East. The Pacers hold a dismal 6-31 record and are particularly poor on the road at 1–16. They rank 28th in points per game (110.8 PPG) and 25th in points allowed (119.7 PAPG). Charlotte, at 13-24, fares slightly better, ranking 18th in scoring (115.5 PPG) and 20th in defense (117.3 PAPG). A key differentiator is rebounding, where the Hornets rank 11th overall.
With Haliburton out, all eyes will be on Andrew Nembhard to orchestrate the Pacers' offense. Aaron Nesmith will likely take on tough defensive assignments, while Myles Turner's presence in the paint will be vital for interior defense. The Pacers have struggled mightily on the offensive glass in recent games.
Charlotte's fortunes will hinge on All-Star guard LaMelo Ball, who averages 19.7 points and 7.9 assists. Miles Bridges provides consistent scoring, and if cleared, Brandon Miller adds another dynamic option. Rookie Kon Knueppel has been an efficient shooter and could play a significant role.
Game Outlook, Betting Line, and How to Watch
Given the Pacers' extensive injury list and road woes, the Hornets are favored by 3.5 points. The matchup will likely be decided in the trenches—rebounding and ball security will be critical. The duel between Nembhard handling Charlotte's pressure and LaMelo Ball's creative flair will be a fascinating subplot.
Indiana needs a near-perfect, clean game to snap their long losing streak. However, Charlotte's superior depth, home-court advantage at the Spectrum Center, and relatively healthier roster make them the clear favorites to capitalize on a short-handed opponent.
Fans can catch the game locally on FDSIN, FDSSE, and WAXN. Out-of-market viewers can stream it via NBA League Pass. Live stats and highlights will be available on ESPN and Bleacher Report platforms, with radio coverage on both teams' flagship stations.
