PREVIEW: The Philadelphia 76ers (22-18) host the Indiana Pacers (10-33) on Monday night , featuring a matchup between Eastern Conference teams headed in vastly different directions. The 76ers currently sit in seventh place in the East , while the Pacers continue their five-game road trip after a rough start with a 121-78 loss to the Pistons. All of the Pacers' four leading scorers who sat out that game are expected back in the lineup , which could dramatically shift the complexion of this contest. With those key players available, Indiana has been playing well lately, winning four of five games. Tyrese Maxey ranks third in the NBA in scoring at 30.3 points per game and represents the Sixers' most explosive offensive weapon, while Joel Embiid has always caused problems for the Pacers, averaging 31 points and 11.1 rebounds per game over his career against Indiana . From a structural standpoint, Philadelphia excels with efficient free-throw shooting and strong perimeter defense , though the team struggles with inefficient three-point shooting and poor defense against attacks at the rim. Indiana brings elite defensive rebounding to the table and limited three-point attempts allowed on defense , yet the Pacers' average outside shooting and midrange frequency may face challenges against Philadelphia's defensive schemes. This matchup presents a classic tale of talent and depth against a resilient squad fighting to prove it belongs in the playoff conversation.