Missing 11 players, Pacers play just six in loss to Hawks
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- The Indiana Pacers used only six players in their 108-104 loss to the Atlanta Hawks, marking the earliest occurrence of such limited player usage in nearly 80 years, with the last instance in 1948 by the Lakers.
- The Pacers were severely depleted due to injuries and rest, with 11 players sidelined, including key contributors Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, and T.J. McConnell; Kelly Oubre Jr. was a late scratch.
- Coach Rick Carlisle noted the players logged excessive minutes but praised their effort, comparing the game to a notable 2004 Pacers game where only six players were used following the "Malice at the Palace" incident.
- Despite the loss, the Pacers showed resilience with Quenton Jackson and Jarace Walker playing heavy minutes, but missed critical shots late in the game, allowing the Hawks to secure the win.
- The absence of key players represented a significant salary gap, with sidelined players earning about $193 million combined versus $15 million for those who played, highlighting the impact of injuries and rest management on the team.
