Preview: Struggling Pacers Face Surging Lakers in Los Angeles LOS ANGELES (Interstat) — The Indiana Pacers, mired in a difficult season, face a daunting task Friday night when they visit the Western Conference-contending Los Angeles Lakers at crypto.com Arena. The Pacers (15-47) arrive having lost 10 of their last 11 games, including a 130-107 defeat to the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday. Their defense has been a persistent issue, allowing an average of 124.5 points during that 11-game stretch. Forward Pascal Siakam remains a bright spot, averaging 25.2 points over his last five contests, including a 29-point effort against the Clippers. Conversely, the Lakers (37-24) have won three straight and seven of their last 10 to solidify their playoff positioning. They are coming off a 110-101 victory over New Orleans on Tuesday, fueled by another triple-double from All-Star guard Luka Doncic, who had 27 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists. Doncic has been exceptional, averaging 28.1 points, 7.4 rebounds and 8.9 assists over his last seven games. His partnership with veteran forward LeBron James, who is averaging 21.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 7.0 assists in recent play, forms the core of one of the league’s most potent offenses. The matchup between Siakam and the Lakers’ frontcourt, which includes James and Anthony Davis, will be critical. Indiana’s recent results show a team unable to sustain defensive effort, while the Lakers have showcased high-scoring efficiency, topping 125 points in four of their last ten outings. This is the first of two meetings between the teams this month. They will play again in Indianapolis on March 25. For the Pacers, the game opens a three-game West Coast trip. The Lakers continue a five-game homestand before embarking on a lengthy road trip later this month. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. PST.