
The start of the Pacers' grueling seven-game stretch didn't get off on the right foot when they lost to Orlando on Saturday.
Their next challenge? Just the Los Angeles Lakers, the team with the best record in the NBA.
Beating the Lakers has been tough for the Pacers in recent years. The Lakers have won three of the past four meetings.
It's no secret the Pacers have to worry about defending Kobe Bryant, the league's reigning MVP. But unlike in years past, the Pacers have to try to stop more than Bryant. There's also Pau Gasol, Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom who are capable of having big games.
That's not good for the Pacers because they have enough problems trying to stop just one player. Indiana also lacks the scoring power to go basket for basket with teams with multiple scoring threats.
MAGIC 110, PACERS 96: Center Dwight Howard led four Magic players in double figures when he scored 32 points to go with 21 rebounds and four blocked shots. While Howard dominated the paint, it was his frontcourt partner, Rashard Lewis, who gave Orlando a lift in the second half. Lewis scored 21 of his 24 points in the final 24 minutes.
Forward Danny Granger led the Pacers, who have lost five of their last six games, with 27 points.