Siakam and Haliburton Lead Pacers to 122-103 Win vs. Pistons

The victory was not just about the top scorers; contributions came from all quarters. Aaron Nesmith added 14 points, ensuring the Pacers swept the season series with the Pistons.

A standout performance by Isaiah Jackson, with 10 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists, drew high praise, mainly because he played close to his hometown.

“Isaiah Jackson should be the poster person for every young player that is developing and supposed to be staying ready,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle commented. “Myles (Turner) was dealing with a little bit of a bug, so we knew Isaiah was going to get some extra minutes at home, and he changed the game when he got in there.”

The road victory marked an optimistic beginning to the Pacers’ five-game road trip.

“This is a great start to the trip, but this is only the beginning,” Carlisle added, highlighting the team’s forward-looking mentality.

The Pistons, led by Cade Cunningham with 23 points, faced challenges exacerbated by the absence of key players due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, Pistons coach Monty Williams remained defiant. “There’s no excuse – I don’t care about the talent level,” Williams stated. “I’ve spent my entire NBA career overcoming. That’s just what it is. No player in this league has accomplished anything without overcoming.”

The game’s turning point came late in the first half when the Pacers went on a decisive 33-9 run, demonstrating their offensive firepower and leaving the Pistons trailing.

“I think we especially struggled in the third quarter, and it has been the third quarter for a few games for us,” Cunningham said. “We have to come out, our first group, and be better in the second half.”

Detroit’s attempt to counter the Pacers’ robust offense was hampered by poor shooting from beyond the arc, making only 5 of 23 attempts. The Pacers capitalized, leading significantly into the final quarter and allowing them to rest key players.

The game also saw Chimeze Metu debuting for the Pistons, highlighting the team’s extensive roster changes this season. Carlisle acknowledged the challenges faced by the Pistons, praising Coach Williams for his resilience and leadership despite the team’s struggles.

“You don’t know what it is like to go through a season like that unless you’ve been through it,” Carlisle said of Williams. “Monty is a great friend and universally respected in our profession. That team has gotten light years better, even if it isn’t showing up yet in the win column.”

As both teams look ahead, the Pacers are set to face the Golden State Warriors, while the Pistons will host the Boston Celtics, with both games scheduled for Friday.