The Brooklyn Nets secured a back-to-back victory, defeating the Chicago Bulls at Barclays Center, as they prepare for their final game before the All-Star break against the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers, fresh off an overtime win against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, arrive in Brooklyn with several key players sidelined.
Indiana will be without Tyrese Haliburton, Ivica Zubac, Johnny Furphy, Obi Toppin, and Jarace Walker for tonight’s contest. The team’s status is further complicated by the fact that this is the second game of a back-to-back, raising the possibility of additional players sitting out.
Brooklyn’s coaching staff is likewise monitoring injury reports. Noah Clowney is listed as probable, but his condition could open the door for Josh Minott to make his Nets debut. The Nets have recently added Ochai Agbaji and Minott to the roster, leaving one open roster spot. All three two-way players remain with the Long Island Nets.
Nets coach Jordi Fernandez has been impressed with the development of young guards Nolan Traore and Egor Dёmin. “I don’t see it as one guy covering for the other: I like the shooting from both of them. Nolan’s not shy when he’s open. We’ve seen Egor shoot at a very high level. Nolan’s speed, his paint touches and pick-and-roll playmaking, same with Egor,” Fernandez said. “They have clear goals, short-term things they need to do on both ends. As long as they preserve taking those steps they’re doing a great job and that’s what matters.”
Fernandez emphasized a strategic approach for the game against the Pacers, suggesting the Nets should capitalize on Indiana’s fatigue. “When a team is on night two of a b2b and played overtime the night before, you should gaze to speed them up. The opponent is on tired legs and is just trying to make it through the night in one piece. For the Nets, they should look to obtain out and run as much as possible.”
Despite the Pacers’ struggles this season, Pascal Siakam has emerged as a standout performer. He has continued to play at a high level, even with increased usage. “It takes a special player to be named an All-Star when your team is one of the worst in the league,” a recent report noted. “Siakam has fought through everything this season and has continued to play at a high level for Indiana. When the game is close late, Rick Carlisle can trust him to make something happen.”
Tonight’s game also features the Nets’ annual Chinese New Year’s celebration. The team is hosting a range of events to commemorate the Lunar New Year.
The Phoenix Suns defeated the Indiana Pacers 133-98 on November 13, 2025, according to ESPN.
