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The Pacers look to finish strong on the road agasint the Lakers after a soft showing in the past three outings. Fatigue and altitude shouldn't be a problem since the Blue and Gold has been resting oceanside in L.A. for the past couple of days.
The Pacers have a strong recent history playing under the bright lights in L.A., as well. After taking 11 tries to beat to beat the Lakers at Staples Center, the Pacers have won their last three games when visiting the Lakers.
In fact, since getting that first win against the Lakers in the 2010-11 season, the Pacers are 5-1 overall at Staples, including a win over the Clippers earlier this season. The only loss was against the Clippers on Jan. 17, 2011.
Of course, with aging stars and injuries to Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash, the Lakers are glamorous in name only this year which is obvious after looking at their projected starting lineup. The Lakers may be energized by returning home after their own monster road trip which saw them go 2-7. Regardless, the Pacers desperately need to raise their level of play to return home on a positive note for a strong finish before the All-Star break.
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