NBA Game Today: Indiana Pacers vs Boston Celtics - January 20, 2026

🏀 Today's matchup features the Indiana Pacers taking on the Boston Celtics at TD Garden in Boston.

📺 Broadcast: NBC SPORTS BOSTON

⏰ Tip-off Time: 1/22/2026, 12:30:00 AM

Match Preview

NBA Game Today: Indiana Pacers vs. Boston Celtics Preview - January 20, 2026

Get ready for a thrilling showdown at TD Garden as the Boston Celtics host the Indiana Pacers in one of the most anticipated NBA matchups of January 20, 2026! This game is set to light up your Tuesday night and is available for viewing on NBC SPORTS BOSTON. It's not just any "NBA game today"; it's a collision course between two titans looking to make serious playoff moves. Let's dive into what makes this matchup a can't-miss for any basketball fan.

Key Player Matchups

All eyes will be on the scintillating matchup between Jayson Tatum and Bennedict Mathurin. Tatum, seasoned and sharp, is known for his silky-smooth scoring touches and clutch gene. But don't sleep on Mathurin—he's the passion and pride of the Pacers, ready to erupt at any moment with a jaw-dropping performance. Imagine an electrifying battle where Tatum’s finesse goes head-to-head with Mathurin’s explosive drives. And let's not forget about the backcourt clash between Marcus Smart's defensive prowess against Tyrese Haliburton's wizard-like playmaking abilities. This game is going to be a treat for anyone who loves basketball duels at the highest level.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Celtics, riding high on one of the NBA's best defenses, thrive on their ability to shut down the opposition’s best players. They have depth, grit, and the experience to handle high-pressure moments. However, their offense can sometimes lag behind if Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown aren’t firing on all cylinders. Meanwhile, the Pacers are brimming with young talent and speed. When they hit their stride, their offense can be a raging tempest, but their Achilles' heel is their inconsistency on the defensive end, which often leaves them vulnerable to high-scoring teams like the Celtics.

Game Plan for Victory

For Boston to secure the "W" in this "Boston Celtics game today," they need to impose their defensive will early and control the tempo. It's crucial that they limit easy baskets and turn Pacers’ turnovers into fast-break opportunities. As for Indiana, playing a disciplined game is key. They need to exploit any Celtics' lapses by keeping their ball movement crisp, and ensuring Haliburton gets plenty of touches to create offensive magic. Indiana’s young squad will have to crash the boards to thwart Boston’s second-chance points.

Predictions and Energizing Insights

This game’s going to be a rollercoaster ride, folks! I've got the Celtics edging out the Pacers in a heart-pounding finish. The TD Garden crowd will be pulsating with energy, giving Boston an extra boost in crunch time. Expect Jayson Tatum to drop 30+ points, showing once again why he's a superstar in this league. And watch out for a surprise breakout game from a Celtics bench player—maybe Payton Pritchard hitting key triples when it counts the most. But don’t count the Pacers out; if Mathurin catches fire from beyond the arc early, the Celtics could be in for a long night.

Conclusion

Mark this "NBA matchups January 20, 2026" on your calendar because it's gonna be a barnburner! It's always special when Celtics’ tradition clashes with the underdog fire and youthful energy of a team like the Pacers. Whether you're rooting for Boston's thunderous defense or Indiana's up-and-coming stars, this is the kind of NBA drama that's worth every minute. Settle in for a top-notch basketball display that’s as unpredictable as it is electrifying. Keep your snacks close and remote closer, because this one's gonna be epic!

🔥 Stay tuned for updates on today’s Pacers vs Celtics NBA matchup!