J.B. Bickerstaff, Coach, confirmed the decision approximately 90 minutes before tipoff. Garland has a sore back and is on the injury report. He averages 19.9 and 8.1 points.
Garland’s absence could mean Caris leVert may get more playing time, after being acquired by the Pacers in a trade on Sunday. LeVert scored 42 in his last home game against Indiana, a week ago.
The LeVert deal was the first of three important moves that Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard made prior to Thursday’s deadline.
Rick Carlisle, Indiana coach, said that he expected all four healthy players Indiana added to play — shooting guard Buddy Hield, guard Tyrese Haliburton, and guard guard Buddy Hield; forward Jalen Smith; and forward-center Tristan Thompson
