Friday, January 20, 2006

Pacers vs Wolves preview

Records: Wolves 18-18, Pacers 21-16

Wolves' averages: 91.8 points, 90.3 points against, 46 FG percentage, 73.9 FT percentage

Pacers' averages: 94.1 points, 90.9 points against, 45.2 FG percentage, 73.8 FT percentage

Pacers all-star Jermaine O'Neal (left ankle sprain) likely won't play. Jamaal Tinsley is recovering from a right biceps injury. And Jonathan Bender hasn't played since the season opener. The injuries and the distraction caused by Ron Artest's looming trade have contributed to a disappointing season for the Pacers, who were predicted to contend for the NBA Finals. Stephen Jackson led the Pacers in scoring in five of their past 10 games and is averaging 20.4 points during that stretch.