The Indiana Pacers (5-2) return to Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Saturday night to play the Charlotte Bobcats (2-5) after finishing up a four-game road trip with a big win over the Boston Celtics on Friday night.
The road wasn't always so kind, but the Pacers finished the trip 2-2 and will try to build on the positive result against the Celtics when they host Charlotte. The Pacers' bench came up big in Boston with 33 points as they continue to confirm their best formula for success is to lean on their depth instead of relying on one or two players to carry the offensive load. Last night the Pacers had six players score in double figures with none scoring more than 15 points.
Back-to-back game fatigue will be an issue for both team since Charlotte also played on Friday night, losing to the Atlanta Hawks in overtime, 102-96. The Bobcats have lost five of their last six games but may be playing better than their record indicates. The list of losses includes two games lost to the Miami Heat and other losses to the Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks.
The Pacers should have an advantage in the front court where Charlotte has been starting Boris Diaw at center. Familiar face D.J. White is averaging 11.3 points and 6.4 rebounds in his starting role at power forward. After injuries limited his opportunities, White is finally getting a chance to play in the NBA and taking advantage of the minutes.
The Bobcats are led by point guard D.J. Augustin with 16.9 points per game. Gerald Henderson adds 14.1 points per game at the other guard spot, while rookie Kemba Walker comes off the bench to add 10.6 points to the back court attack.
For more on the Indiana Pacers, check out Indy Cornrows. You can also head over to SB Nation's main NBA hub at SBNation.com/NBA.
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