The Indiana Pacers, holding a 13-39 record, are scheduled to play the Toronto Raptors on Super Bowl Sunday at 3 p.m. ET. This marks the final encounter between the two teams this season, with Toronto having won all three previous meetings. The Pacers are coming off a narrow 105-99 defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, extending their losing streak to three games, while the Raptors recently beat the Chicago Bulls 123-107 but have dropped three of their past five contests.
Current Injury Status for Indiana Pacers Ahead of Game
Indiana’s injury report lists several players unavailable or uncertain for Sunday’s matchup. Notably, Kobe Brown and Ivica Zubac, recently acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers, will not suit up. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged ongoing concerns about Zubac’s ankle, which he has been managing since December, and insisted that the center will only return when fully recovered. Quoting Carlisle,
“It’s kind of yo-yo’d a little bit,”
and,
“My understanding from talking to him is that there’s still something there that’s not quite right. We’re not going to put him out there until he’s really ready.”
Aaron Nesmith, initially listed as questionable due to a left elbow sprain, has been upgraded to available. Micah Potter, who has missed two recent games with a left hip contusion and was doubtful for Sunday, is also expected to play. Meanwhile, two-way players Quenton Jackson remains questionable, with Taelon Peter and Ethan Thompson doubtful for the game. Obi Toppin remains out with a foot injury, and Kobe Brown and Ivica Zubac will not participate as they continue their transition to the team.
Toronto Raptors’ Injury Update Before Facing the Pacers
The Raptors’ injury list includes several absences. Two-way player Chucky Hepburn will not be available, and recently acquired Chris Paul will likely be waived without joining the team, according to GM Bobby Webster. Jakob Poeltl, sidelined since late December due to a lower back injury, was initially considered questionable but has been downgraded to out for this game. Immanuel Quickley, who had been questionable due to a right ankle sprain sustained in practice, is confirmed as available and has recently been a significant contributor for Toronto. Over his last 10 games, Quickley has averaged 19.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, six assists, and 1.7 steals per game, shooting efficiently from the field and beyond the arc, including a standout 40-point performance against the Golden State Warriors.
Implications for the Pacers Amidst Ongoing Struggles
The Pacers’ current struggles are intensified by injuries and the uncertainty surrounding key contributors. Aaron Nesmith’s return is a positive sign, offering some relief in Indiana’s lineup against a Raptors team that has maintained an advantage in their season meetings. The absence of Zubac and the doubtful status of several two-way players limit Indiana’s depth as they seek to halt their losing streak. Toronto enters the game with some injury challenges but remains a formidable opponent given their recent performances and roster stability. The outcome Sunday could influence the Pacers’ momentum late in the season and their ability to compete in upcoming matchups.
Bobby Webster on Chris Paul:
“We spoke to his agent yesterday. I don’t know what he’s going to do.”
“Chris Paul’s probably one of my favourite player’s ever, and so, that’s a weird thing to trade for him and then, you know.”
“He’s at this point in his career, so I said,… pic.twitter.com/X6lAXyfsko
— Omer Osman (@OmerOsman200) February 6, 2026
