The Pacers Finally win one:

On Friday night the Pacers managed to do something they hadn't done in nearly two weeks: win. Their first since a 1 point overtime win at home versus the lowly Hawks. In fact the Pacers haven't played a good, or even a decent game, since the All-Star break. During the six game losing streak, they mixed in losses against teams like the Grizzles and Hawks, with losses to good teams like the Spurs and Nets. They played a boring and uninspired brand of basketball, scoring as low as 69 points one game. But they did finally manage to win a game fueled by the play of Brad Miller and little used Jamison Brewer. Brewer provided enthusiasm and energy to the Pacers. He not only stripped future hall-of-famer Gary Payton less than one minute after hoping off the bench, but he also scored 4 points to go along with 5 assists while committing only 1 turnover in 21 minutes of action. Hopefully the rest of the team takes after him and starts playing like they have something to prove.

Artest Suspended again:

Ron Artest was left home when the Pacers traveled to Boston this week for apparently smashing a framed picture of himself after a close loss to Washington. It was the first time Artest has been suspended by team officials rather than league officials. During his time off, Ron meet with league officials to discuss his anger problems. Artest not only admitted to having a problem, he apologized and supposedly set a self-imposed ultimatum. He, along with the Pacers, played his first good game in quite awhile on Friday. He was 7 of 10 from the field for 17 points to go along with 5 assists and 5 rebounds despite coming off the bench for the first time this season.

Injures:

Bender was placed back on the IL with the same calf injury that has plagued him the entire season. The time-table for his return is unknown. Freddie Jones is also on the IL with a "sore" knee.

Predictions for the Week:

Last Week: 1-2

Season Total: 14-11

@ Golden State: A young team with good talent. They are also though at home. Warriors by1.

@ Lakers: Lakers have been hot, and Kobe seems unstoppable. If Artest takes this as a personal challenge the Pacers can win. Pacers by 1.

@ Portland: Quality team, but look for JO to seek revenge. Pacers by 6.
Marc Roberts covers the Pacers for hoopsworld.com and also manages the pacers.realgm.com website.