PREVIEW: The Indiana Pacers arrive in Portland ranked last in the league for three-point shooting efficiency while simultaneously allowing opponents to take high-quality looks from distance at the 29th-ranked rate. The Trail Blazers, conversely, rank third in three-point attempt frequency and boast elite offensive rebounding at 31.0 percent , giving them multiple chances to capitalize on second opportunities. Portland enters as 8.5-point favorites against one of the league's worst road teams, with the Pacers sitting at just 5-26 away from home. Indiana does show strength on the defensive glass with a top-ranked rebounding unit and allows few three-point attempts, but those advantages may prove insufficient against a home squad looking to impose its pace. The Blue and Gold arrive seeking their first victory after dropping their opening two games on this West Coast journey , while Portland's injury troubles include the absence of leading scorer Shaedon Sharpe and the questionable status of Deni Avdija due to a lower back injury. Pascal Siakam has recently returned to form for Indiana, posting 29 and 26 points in consecutive outings against the Clippers and Lakers , providing some offensive firepower despite the team's overall struggles. With key Pacers starters sidelined, Indiana's bench unit faces a significant mismatch against Portland's more established rotation, which could create extended runs for the home team when reserves enter the game. Though the Blazers should have a clear advantage on paper, coach Rick Carlisle's Pacers present a trap game that has caught opponents off guard throughout the season, making complacency a real concern for Portland.