Houston Rockets vs Indiana Pacers Preview

Mar 27, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets shooting guard James Harden (13) dribbles against Indiana Pacers small forward Paul George (24) in the first half at the Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports

Previewing the Houston Rockets matchup against the Indiana Pacers Friday night by the numbers.

94.9

The Pacers’ defensive rating(points allowed per 100 possessions), good for 1st in the NBA. While the Rockets rank 5th in offensive rating at 108 points per 100 possessions, the Pacers still have a commanding presence defensively, leading the league as well in fewest second chance points allowed, fast break points allowed, and points in the pain allowed.

18.5

The net rating for the Pacers this season in 3rd quarters, which is by far the most in the NBA. That mark maintains at +13.6 in the second half of games, which is the complete opposite trend of how the Rockets usually are, who lead the league in first half net rating at +9.3.

27.1 percent

James Harden’s field goal percentage in the past 6 games against the Pacers(22 for 81). Coming off arguably his best month of basketball in his career averaging 27.9 points in the month of February, Harden will try to break out of his struggles against the defense of Paul George, who scored 24 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in the first meeting.

Tip: 8:30 PM CT

TV: ESPN