Posted: February 12, 2011 1:40 p.m. CT
By CRAIG COSHUN
FOX Sports Wisconsin
The Bucks' week started out just right, breaking a 4-game losing streak at home, but then they may have lost that confidence again by dropping both games on the road trip. Can they re-gain a swagger against the Pacers, a team they've already defeated twice this season without a loss.
These two teams are still in the playoff race despite having a losing record -- will Indiana gain some separation or will the Bucks close the gap?
The Bucks (20-32)
- The team remains offensively challenged except for Corey Maggette. He had 22 points, including four 3's in the 3rd quarter at Memphis on Friday. He has scored in double-digits in 10 straight games and 15 of the last 16.
- The Bucks have lost six of seven games overall.
- The Bucks' players held a players-only meeting Friday morning to talk things out and search for any way to spark a team that appears to be in a season-long funk.
The Pacers (23-28)
- One of the hottest teams in the league right now since going 6-1 for new coach Frank Vogel. The team fired Jim O'Brien on January 30 and the players have responded.
- Pacers are averaging 44 rebounds per game, which is 4th in the league. They have also become a strong offensive rebounding team.
- Scoring 100... the Pacers are 17-6. They've hit the century mark in 13 of the last 17 games.
- Danny Granger paces team 20.9 points per game.
- Mike Dunleavy shoots 41% from 3pt land.
The Series
Bucks lead season series 2-0 having won in both Indy and Brewtown. The last game in Milwaukee was December 8 and Andrew Bogut capped it with a tip-in as time expired, 97-95 Bucks win.
Playoff Race
Big game for the Bucks to get at home because they trail Indiana for the 8th and final playoff spot by 3 1/2 games. Must get a win against the team you're chasing.
Vince is in the House
The Vince Lombardi Trophy will pay a visit to the BC Saturday as the Super Bowl champion Packers will be honored.
Injuries
- Drew Gooden (plantar fasciitis) out 4-6 weeks
