Preview: Pacers Visit Hawks in Monday Night NBA Matchup ATLANTA (Interstat) — The Atlanta Hawks look to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference play-in race when they host the struggling Indiana Pacers on Monday night at State Farm Arena. The Hawks (22-25) enter on a two-game winning streak after a 110-103 victory over Phoenix on Friday. Forward Jalen Johnson has been a catalyst, averaging 22.5 points, 14.5 rebounds and 7.5 assists over those two wins. For the season, he is posting near-triple-double numbers, establishing himself as Atlanta’s primary offensive engine. Indiana (11-35), owning the league’s second-worst record, is coming off a surprising 117-114 road win against Oklahoma City. Guard Andrew Nembhard led the way with 27 points and 11 assists, continuing a stellar individual stretch. Over his last 10 games, Nembhard is averaging 19.1 points and 8.8 assists. The teams last met on Oct. 31, with Atlanta securing a 128-108 road victory. The Hawks have won four of the last five head-to-head matchups. While the Pacers have shown sporadic offensive firepower, winning three of their last eight, their defense remains a persistent issue. They have allowed 119.3 points per game over that span. The Hawks, inconsistent but more potent, will look to exploit that weakness. Atlanta’s recent success has hinged on Johnson’s all-around play and support from center Onyeka Okongwu, who scored 25 points against Phoenix. Indiana will counter with Nembhard’s playmaking and forward Pascal Siakam, who had 21 points in the win over the Thunder. The game is the first of a home-and-home set this week, with the teams scheduled to meet again in Indianapolis on Saturday. Following Monday’s contest, Atlanta begins a two-game road trip at Boston on Wednesday. Indiana returns home to host Chicago on Wednesday.