The Indiana Pacers have the opportunity for a payback. On Friday, the shorthanded Boston Celtics decimated the Indy side with a 142-105 win at the TD Garden. It was a Jaylen Brown exclusive. The reigning Finals MVP dropped a commanding 44 points to shut Tyrese Haliburton & Co. Amid this embarrassing loss in front of the away crowd, the Pacers have the chance to script a great sporting comeback, as they face the Celtics again on Sunday at the TD Garden.

Notably, the C’s played the previous game without their two starters, Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday. While the 7 ‘2 big man has been on and off the team due to recurring injuries, Holiday’s absence was a serious setback. The 2x NBA Champ didn’t play the last two games, dealing with shoulder impingement, and most likely will not lace up for the Sunday game, as the team has listed him in the Questionable category.

Kristaps Porzingis, on the other hand, made a delayed debut this season, recovering from an off-season leg surgery. Even after his return, he was prone to injuries. Mid-way through the Christmas Day game against the Philly side, he sustained an ankle injury and hasn’t laced up since then. Moreover, he is also less likely to play the Sunday game, as the team has listed him in the Questionable category. Apart from the Unicorn and Holiday, the team has also listed Anton Watson out, citing an abductor injury.

Similarly, in the Pacers’ unit, the team has a long list. The latest one was Obi Toppin, who tweaked his ankle against the Thunder and missed the Friday game. The team has listed him as Questionable and he is less likely to play. Apart from him, the team has listed out: Aaron Nesmith, Isaiah Jackson, and James Wiseman.

Celtics vs Pacers: Starting Lineup and Depth Chart

The Celtics are just too good a team to beat. The Pacers should have almost everything go in their favor to defeat the defending champions. Despite not having two starters, the team still looks lethal on all fronts. The team has a strong two-way guard and a dominating frontcourt, spearheaded by Jayson Tatum. The only time the Pacers can take advantage of the C’s is when either of their superstars is off the court.

The Boston Celtics

The Indiana Pacers

The Pacers, on the other hand, should stick to their strengths and play their natural fast-paced game. Tyrese Haliburton, who hasn’t fired much this season, should work on his offensive bag and drop some dimes for the rest of the roster. Will the Pacers pay back the Celts? Let us know in the comments.