Full Breakdown
NBA Matchups: Celtics vs. Pacers and Cavaliers vs. Hornets on January 21, 2026
1/21/2026, 9:24:51 PM
Celtics vs. Pacers: Game Overview
The Boston Celtics (26-16) are set to host the Indiana Pacers (10-34) at TD Garden in Boston on January 21, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. ET. This matchup marks the fourth and final meeting of the season, with Boston leading the series 2-1. The Celtics are favored by 10.5 points, with an over/under set at 226.5 points. Indiana is struggling, having lost their last game against the Philadelphia 76ers, while Boston is looking to bounce back from a narrow defeat to the Detroit Pistons.
The Pacers are missing key players, including Tyrese Haliburton (achilles), Bennedict Mathurin (thumb), and Obi Toppin (foot). In contrast, the Celtics have Jaylen Brown listed as probable, while Jayson Tatum is out due to an achilles injury.
Recent Performance and Statistics
The Pacers have struggled on the road, holding a dismal 2-18 record away from home this season. They recently committed 24 turnovers in their loss to Philadelphia, which resulted in 28 points for the opposition. Conversely, the Celtics have been more consistent, with Jaylen Brown averaging 29.8 points per game this season. In their last matchup, the Pacers managed to edge out the Celtics 98-96, but Boston had previously won by margins of 8 and 18 points in their earlier encounters.
Cavaliers vs. Hornets: Game Overview
In another Eastern Conference clash, the Cleveland Cavaliers (24-20) will face the Charlotte Hornets (16-27) at Spectrum Center in Charlotte at 7:00 p.m. ET. This game is the third of four meetings this season, with the series currently tied 1-1. The Cavaliers are slight favorites, with a spread of 2.5 points and an over/under of 236.5 points.
Cleveland is dealing with significant injuries, as Darius Garland (toe), Sam Merrill (hand), and Max Strus (foot) will not play. The Hornets, however, are relatively healthy, with Mason Plumlee (groin) out and Tidjane Salaun (achilles) listed as probable.
Recent Performance and Statistics
The Cavaliers are coming off a heavy loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, where they allowed 136 points. They have struggled with consistency, particularly in their defensive efforts. Meanwhile, the Hornets have shown improvement, winning three of their last five games, including victories over the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets. Charlotte has the fourth-best net rating in the league over the past two weeks, showcasing their offensive capabilities.
Official Statements & Responses
Celtics' Jaylen Brown commented on the Pacers' physical play, stating, “You got to give credit to them. They’re extremely physical. You feel it on every possession the whole game.” This sentiment reflects the competitive nature of their matchups, especially given the Pacers' recent victory over Boston.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics point to the Pacers' inability to maintain consistency, particularly on the road, as a significant factor in their poor season. Conversely, the Cavaliers' recent performances have raised concerns about their defensive strategies, especially with key players sidelined.
What's Next
Following these matchups, the Celtics will continue their road trip, while the Cavaliers will look to regroup before facing the Orlando Magic. Both teams aim to solidify their standings in the Eastern Conference as the season progresses.
