The Los Angeles Lakers play host to the Indiana Pacers at Crypto Center on Wednesday.

The Pacers (15-29) have been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA. They have one of the most talented rosters in the Eastern Conference but sit near the bottom of the standings. Numerous issues have landed them in this spot, with a 3-17 road record looking like the major factor. What's also killed them is their late-game execution, posting a 2-13 record in games decided by four points or fewer. Those two statistics would kill any team, especially one with so many talented players. The ugly record has many people calling for a rebuild. That'd be a sad development with guys like Myles Turner, Domantas Sabonis, Caris LeVert and Malcolm Brogdon all looking like prime candidates to be moved.

The Lakers (22-22) had three bad losses before a shocking win over the Utah Jazz on Monday. That victory came after an apology from LeBron James, with the superstar providing 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in that victory. More importantly, Los Angeles held Utah to 95 points on 37 percent shooting. Games like that have been rare occurrences for one of the worst defenses in the NBA, and some effort on that side of the floor could get them on a serious run. Another bit of good news came on Monday, too, with Anthony Davis getting cleared for on-court work. That means his return could happen in weeks rather than months, and that's yet another encouraging sign for this disappointing team.

These teams played an overtime thriller on November 24, with Los Angeles prevailing, 124-116. That gives the Lakers three straight wins in this series after a season sweep last year.