CHICAGO -- It was the best of all possible worlds for the Indiana Pacers: a game that resembled an exhibition but counted in the standings.

Their 93-81 victory over Chicago at United Center on Monday snapped a five-game losing streak and brought their first victory in seven games this season while playing without the injured Jermaine O'Neal.

 




And whatever it lacked in beauty and brains, it gave coach Isiah Thomas the opportunity to work on a new offensive set and offer Jonathan Bender another dose of development.