Devin Carter’s career-high 24 points—22 in the fourth quarter—ignited a 20-point comeback as the Sacramento Kings defeated the Indiana Pacers 114-109, handing the Pacers their 10th consecutive loss in a matchup between the NBA’s two worst records.
In a performance that will define his young career, Devin Carter erupted for 22 of his career-best 24 points in the final quarter, single-handedly erasing a double-digit deficit to lift the Sacramento Kings to a thrilling 114-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night. The win snaps a three-game losing streak for Sacramento against Indiana this season, including a 116-105 defeat in Indianapolis on Dec. 8.
Carter’s shooting display was historically efficient. He converted 9 of 13 field-goal attempts and drilled 3 of 4 three-pointers, with his 22 fourth-quarter points representing one of the most dominant closing stretches by a King this season [Associated Press]. His 13-point run midway through the final frame gave Sacramento its first lead since the opening quarter, swinging momentum irrevocably.
- Devin Carter: 24 points (22 in Q4), 9-of-13 FG, 3-of-4 3PT
- Maxime Raynaud: 18 points, 11 rebounds (15th double-double of rookie season)
- Russell Westbrook: 16 points, 9 assists, 7 rebounds
- DeMar DeRozan & Nique Clifford: 12 points each
The Pacers, already reeling with an NBA-worst 10-game losing streak, were without their top two scorers. Pascal Siakam (right knee sprain) and Andrew Nembhard (back and neck soreness) both sat out, leaving Indiana short-handed against a Kings team desperate to climb out of the league’s cellar [Associated Press]. Despite Aaron Nesmith‘s 29 points—24 in the first half—and Obi Toppin‘s 17-point effort, Indiana couldn’t withstand Carter’s fourth-quarter barrage.
This wasn’t merely a win; it was a statement of resilience for a Kings squad that has underachieved all season. Trailing by as many as 20 points and by 10 entering the fourth, Sacramento’s defense tightened while Carter’s offense exploded. The Kings shot 46% from the field and 35% from deep, compared to Indiana’s 41% and 30%, respectively [Associated Press]. Maxime Raynaud‘s and-1 jumper with 16 seconds left sealed the comeback, completing his 18-point, 11-rebound double-double.
For the Pacers, the loss deepens a crisis that threatens to derail their season. Missing Siakam and Nembhard—their first and third-leading scorers—Indiana’s offense sputtered in crucial moments. The team’s 10-game skid, the longest active streak in the NBA, raises urgent questions about roster construction and coaching adjustments as the deadline approaches. Fan speculation is swirling about potential trades to shake up a core that has failed to build on last year’s playoff appearance.
The historical context adds layers to this Result. The Kings had lost three consecutive games to the Pacers, including a December defeat in Indianapolis. Tuesday’s reversal not only snaps that streak but also signals a potential shift in momentum for Sacramento, who now host the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday. Indiana, meanwhile, must regroup quickly to face the Phoenix Suns on Thursday, a must-win to salvage morale.
Carter’s emergence as a clutch performer couldn’t have come at a better time. While Russell Westbrook provided steady playmaking and DeMar DeRozan offered veteran scoring, it was the second-year guard who delivered when the Kings needed him most. His ability to take over in the fourth quarter suggests he could be a cornerstone for Sacramento’s future, especially as the team evaluates its long-term direction.
The Pacers’ situation is direr. With their two best offensive players sidelined, Indiana’s lack of depth was exposed. The loss drops them further in the lottery race, but more immediately, it tests the locker room’s resolve. Coach Rick Carlisle must find ways to generate consistent scoring beyond Nesmith and Toppin, or risk the losing streak spiraling further.
As the NBA season hurtles toward its final stretch, this game serves as a microcosm of two franchises at crossroads. The Kings, despite their poor record, showed they can summon a comeback against a fellow lottery team—a building block for next season. The Pacers, once a hopeful playoff squad, now face a critical juncture where each loss magnifies the need for change.
For the fastest, most authoritative analysis of breaking sports news and deep dives into the stories shaping the games you love, onlytrustedinfo.com delivers the insights that matter—directly and without reservation. Read more to stay ahead of every play, trade, and turnaround.
