Slumping Pacers Face Surging Rockets in Houston HOUSTON (Interstat) — The struggling Indiana Pacers, owners of the NBA’s worst record, face a daunting task Monday night when they visit the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. The Pacers (6-25) enter on a six-game losing skid, including a 140-122 home loss to Boston on Friday. Their season has been defined by defensive struggles, allowing an average of 120.5 points during their current slide. Guard Andrew Nembhard has been a bright spot, averaging 18.1 points and 7.0 assists over his last 10 games. He scored 31 points in a narrow loss to New York on Dec. 18 and posted 28 points and 12 assists in Indiana’s last victory, against Sacramento on Dec. 8. Conversely, the Rockets (18-10) are firmly in the Western Conference playoff picture and are coming off a dominant 119-96 road win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Christmas Day. Forward Kevin Durant continues to perform at an elite level, averaging 25.4 points, 4.6 rebounds and 5.4 assists over his last 10 contests. He is supported by a strong core including Amen Thompson and center Alperen Sengun, who had a double-double in the Christmas Day win. The matchup pits the league’s most porous defense against a potent Houston offense. The Rockets have won three of their last four and are 11-4 at home this season. Indiana has lost 13 of its last 15 games overall and is 3-14 on the road. This game concludes a three-game homestand for Houston before a six-game road trip. Indiana continues a stretch where it plays seven of eight games on the road. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. CST.