### Pacers Achieve First Three-Game Win Streak of the Season with Dramatic Victory Over Celtics The Indiana Pacers have marked a significant milestone in their season by securing their first three-game winning streak after defeating the Boston Celtics 98-96 on January 12, 2026. This victory was highlighted by a clutch performance from Pascal Siakam, who scored 21 points, including a crucial bank shot with just 6.1 seconds left on the clock. The game was tightly contested, with Boston's Derrick White tying the score at 96-all shortly before Siakam's decisive shot. Notably, the Celtics played without their leading scorer, Jaylen Brown, who was sidelined due to lower back spasms, impacting their performance in this close matchup [https://apnews.com/article/celtics-pacers-score-34b7c97660451d27ccdd5f95b705a42f]. ### Breakdown of the Game's Key Elements 1. **Game Overview** - The Pacers achieved a narrow victory over the Celtics, marking their first three-game win streak of the season. - Pascal Siakam's performance was pivotal, scoring the game-winning shot in the final seconds. 2. **Player Performances** - **Pascal Siakam**: 21 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, including the game-winning shot. - **Derrick White (Celtics)**: Scored a driving layup to tie the game before missing a potential go-ahead three-pointer. - **Payton Pritchard (Celtics)**: Led Boston with 23 points and 8 assists. - **Jaylen Brown**: Did not play due to lower back spasms, affecting the Celtics' offensive strategy. 3. **Game Dynamics** - The match was characterized by a back-and-forth scoring battle, with both teams exchanging leads. - The Pacers' defense held strong in the final moments, allowing them to secure the win despite the Celtics' late-game push. ### Supporting Data and Statistics - **Final Score**: Pacers 98, Celtics 96 - **Key Statistics**: - **Pacers**: - Siakam: 21 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists - Jay Huff: 20 points - Andrew Nembhard: 13 points, 9 assists - **Celtics**: - Pritchard: 23 points, 8 assists - White: Key layup to tie the game but missed the final shot attempt [https://www.tsn.ca/nba/article/siakam-pacers-nip-celtics-for-first-three-game-win-streak-of-season]. ### Conclusion: A Turning Point for the Pacers The Indiana Pacers' victory over the Boston Celtics not only signifies their first three-game win streak of the season but also showcases the potential of their roster, particularly with Pascal Siakam stepping up in critical moments. 1. **Significance of the Win**: This victory could be a turning point for the Pacers as they look to build momentum in the season. 2. **Impact of Player Absences**: The absence of Jaylen Brown for the Celtics was a crucial factor that may have influenced the game's outcome. 3. **Future Implications**: The Pacers will aim to leverage this win to continue their upward trajectory in the league standings [https://wtop.com/sports/2026/01/pascal-siakam-and-pacers-nip-celtics-98-96-for-1st-3-game-win-streak-of-season].