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Down one big man, Pacers get boost with Isaiah Jackson available for game vs. NY Knicks

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Down one big man, Pacers get boost with Isaiah Jackson available for game vs. NY Knicks

This story has been updated to add information.

NEW YORK — Backup center Isaiah Jackson will be available for the Pacers‘ game against the Knicks on Friday night in Madison Square Garden after Jackson missed Wednesday’s opener at Detroit with a groin strain, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said in his pre-game news conference.

Jackson’s return is particularly important considering the loss of center James Wiseman, who suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon tear after less than five minutes of action against the Pistons.

Jackson averaged 6.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.0 blocks per game last season in 13.8 minutes per game off the bench and led the Pacers in field goal percentage at .665.

Jackson dealt with both a hamstring injury and the groin strain during the preseason. The combination, he’s said, has held him back but he’s tried to use the time he’s been held out to improve.

“It feels good to be back,” Jackson said. “I’m ready to get to get going. It’s been rough mentally, but I sort of used it as a way to get my stronger. It was tough to say the least, but I’m glad to be back, glad to be playing with these guys.”

Jackson said he thinks his groin injury might have come about in part because his hamstring was not as strong, so he’s been working on his hips to make those stronger so that he doesn’t have a similar issue.

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