Pistons vs. Pacers: Game thread, lineups, TV info and more

The Pacers (4-4) return to action at BLF on Friday night to play the Pistons (4-5) for the third time in the first nine games of the season.

Both teams are hovering around .500 despite dealing with injuries continually jumbling their respective playing rotations. In fact, were the current players on each team’s injury report healthy, they could play an entertaining game.

The Pistons are really hurting in the back court with Reggie Jackson out long term, plus Derrick Rose and Tim Frazier missing time recently. Frazier is up to doubtful which isn’t too promising for the game in Indy. Luke Kennard nuked the Pacers for 30 on opening night playing off the bench, but has been starting due to all of the injuries.

The Pacers continue to play without Edmond Sumner and Jeremy Lamb which should keep Aaron Holiday in the starting lineup, unless they want to sic Justin Holiday on Kennard from the get go. Myles Turner remains close to a return and will be a game-time decision, but Goga Bitadze is out, so the Pacers front court will remain thin regardless.

Seems nuts to talk tie breakers before the ninth game of the season, but the Pacers need this game to get back in position to at least close out their series with the Pistons tied 2-2. The final game of the four-game season series is on Dec. 6.

Where: Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN

When: 7:00 p.m. ET

TV: FOX Sports Indiana

Radio: 107.5 FM/AM 1070 The Fan

Projected Starting Lineups:

Pacers: Malcolm Brogdon, Aaron Holiday, T.J. Warren, Jakarr Sampson, Domantas Sabonis

Pistons: Bruce Brown Jr., Luke Kennard, Tony Snell, Markieff Morris, Andre Drummond

Injury update:

IND: Victor Oladipo (knee) - out, Myles Turner (ankle) - questionable, Edmond Sumner (hand) - out, Goga Bitadze (concussion) - out, Jeremy Lamb (ankle) - out

DET: Blake Griffin (left hamstring/knee soreness) - out, Reggie Jackson (lumbar stress reaction) - out, Tim Frazier (right shoulder strain) - doubtful, Derrick Rose (right hamstring strain) - out

Enemy view: Detroit Bad Boys

Please leave your thoughts and observations on the game in the comments.