WHO: Phoenix Suns (14-11) vs. Indiana Pacers (12-15)

When: 7:00 p.m. Arizona time

Where: Footprint Center – Phoenix, Arizona

Regard: AZFamily, Suns Live

Hear: KMVP 98.7

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The Phoenix Suns enter tonight on a two-game winning streak against the Indiana Pacers, and questions remain as to whether Bradley Beal will return after rehabilitating a swollen knee.

While Beal’s presence would undoubtedly strengthen the Suns’ lineup, they should still be able to handle the Pacers. Indiana has struggled from the start this season and, other than winning three of its last four games, has shown little sign of turning things around anytime soon.

Oh yes, last year’s Pacers are outstanding! Becoming the first team in NBA history to record 2,500 assists and 10,000 points in a single regular season was a remarkable achievement. This level of offensive efficiency and ball movement was special.

However, this season’s Pacers don’t show the same spark as they did a year ago. Whether due to roster changes, injuries or a lack of cohesion, the team seems to have lost the rhythm that made them so dangerous. Their initial difficulties suggest that they are still searching for an identity, and it is unclear whether they can repeat last season’s success. For the Suns, this represents an opportunity to capitalize on a team that is still on the right track.

Likely starters

Injury report

Suns

• Bradley Beal – PROBABLY (right knee swelling)
• Collin Gillespie – OUT (right ankle fracture)

Pacemaker

• Aaron Nesmith – OUT (ankle)
• Ben Sheppard – OUT (diagonal)
• Isaiah Jackson – OUT (torn Achilles tendon)
• James Wiseman – OUT (torn Achilles tendon)

Uniform matchup

What you should pay attention to

Myles Turner

It’s hard to believe that Myles Turner has been with the Pacers for almost a decade! His consistency and impact on defense have made him a staple in Indiana, and it’s no surprise that Suns fans have dreamed of a trade for the veteran big man for years. His ability to protect the rim and control the paint with 1,320 career blocks – the first in Pacers history – is exactly what Phoenix has often lacked. Add in his 4,053 rebounds, which ranks him seventh in franchise history, and it’s clear he brings qualities the Suns could desperately use.

Turner can be a beast at times and will be a difficult task for the Suns’ central rotation to play against.

Even though his numbers are down this season – averaging 14.9 points per game on 48% shooting – Myles Turner’s value heading into the offseason is still significant. As an unrestricted free agent, he will undoubtedly draw attention from teams looking to bolster their interior presence. Turner’s ability to stretch the floor, protect the rim and provide consistent rebounding makes him a rare commodity in today’s NBA.

Despite the slight decline in production, its track record speaks for itself. Teams know what they’re getting with Turner: a reliable veteran who can bolster a defense and contribute offensively. For contenders, his skill set could be the missing piece in a championship puzzle, while rebuilding teams see him as a cornerstone to build on. One thing is certain: his offseason market will be brimming with interest.

The Bank

The Pacers’ bench, which ranks 8th in the league in points per game, has been a reliable presence, often stepping up to support a struggling starting unit. Their depth provides a much-needed spark and keeps them competitive even when their starters fail.

Bennedict Mathurin, who began the season as a substitute, has now cemented his place in the starting lineup for 22 consecutive games. This season, he set a career high with 38 points against the New York Knicks, making seven three-pointers. Despite Mathurin’s move to the starting lineup, the Pacers’ bench continues to hold its own. TJ McConnell, a key reserve, was steady, averaging 11.3 points and 4.2 assists per game.

The Pacers have proven with their bench that they can rely on their strength to keep games competitive. However, against a team like the Suns, their reserves will have to play at an elite level to keep Indiana within striking distance.

forecast

Whether Beal fits or not, the Suns should come out on top in this matchup. Despite the noise and speculation surrounding the team, a solid Suns roster has the talent and focus to handle business against the struggling Pacers. It seems quite possible to extend the winning streak to three games.

Forecast: Suns 121, Pacers 110