PREVIEW: The Boston Celtics, ranked second in good defense against three-point shooting, will host the Indiana Pacers on January 21, 2026 at TD Garden. Boston's elite rim protection and low turnover rate make them formidable at home, while Indiana struggles with inefficient long-range shooting and defensive rebounding issues. The Celtics hold a stronger position with a 26-16 record, ranking second in the Eastern Conference. Jaylen Brown has been a key player for the Celtics, averaging 29.8 points per game this season, making him a crucial part of their offense. The Pacers boys struggled with a record of 10-34, placing them at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Despite their challenges, Indiana ranks fifth in high-frequency midrange shooting, giving them some offensive identity even as they allow too many attacking opportunities at the rim on defense. The Pacers have been getting most of their offense from Andrew Nembhard and Pascal Siakam, with Nembhard tossing in a team-high 25 points against Philadelphia, and Siakam finishing with 24. Both teams have previously faced each other this season, with the Pacers securing a close win of 98-96 in their last encounter.