PREVIEW: The Indiana Pacers will host the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse , a matchup between two teams searching for momentum after disappointing losses earlier in the week. The Hornets sit at 4-10 and 12th in the Eastern Conference, while the Pacers languish at 1-13 in 15th place , making this a battle between struggling squads hoping to find their footing. Indiana's defense ranks poorly in allowing three-point attempts, sitting 29th in the league, while Charlotte brings elite perimeter shooting with a 48.4% three-point attempt rate —a potential recipe for an offensive showcase. The Hornets also boast the second-best defensive rebounding in the league, a critical advantage for controlling the glass against a Pacers team that struggles with defensive fundamentals . On the Charlotte side, rookie forward Kon Knueppel led the charge in their last outing with 24 points and seven rebounds, while Miles Bridges added 22 points , showing the offensive firepower that makes the Hornets dangerous despite their record. For Indiana, Bennedict Mathurin put up 25 points following his return from injury , signaling that the Pacers may finally be getting healthier at a crucial time. What stands out is the Pacers' vulnerability to attacks at the rim, ranking 24th in defensive efficiency in that area while also ranking 28th in allowing shots attacking the basket —a weakness Charlotte's dynamic offensive weapons will look to exploit. Both teams understand that Wednesday's outcome could serve as a turning point, particularly for a Pacers squad desperate to halt an alarming losing streak and prove that recent injury recoveries can spark a turnaround.