Sports

After late stumbles, Pacers looking to regain momentum as playoffs start against Hawks

Associated Press
Published | Updated

New York Knicks' Raymond Felton, left, drives past Indiana Pacers' George Hill during the second half of the NBA basketball game, Sunday, April 14, 2013, in New York. The Knicks won 90-80. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig) (The Associated Press)

New York Knicks' Carmelo Anthony, left, shoots past Indiana Pacers' David West during the second half of the NBA basketball game, Sunday, April 14, 2013, in New York. The Knicks won 90-80. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig) (The Associated Press)

The Indiana Pacers realize their recent numbers look ugly.

Five losses in six games. Deficits of 20 or more points in all six. A blown shot at the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

But they also believe they can turn things around with a best-of-seven playoff series against Atlanta set to open Sunday.

Indiana's top players -- Paul George, George Hill, Roy Hibbert and David West -- haven't played since last Sunday's loss at New York, giving them time to rest and recover. And the Pacers believe that will be enough to get things back on track.