Ho hum, the Atlanta Hawks have yet to rise up to the challenge in a meaningless game in Indianapolis. But somehow, they're still in the ballgame.
Danny Granger has nine points and Tyler Hansbrough and Dahntay Jones posted eight each to lead the Indiana Pacers to a 56-50 edge through two quarters at Conseco Fieldhouse.
Paul George netted seven points and Darren Colison six for the Pacers, who hold a 23-17 edge on the glass.
That's helped erase a slight edge for Atlanta from the field. The Hawks also are having trouble boxing out and controlling the glass when the Pacers shoot the ball. Indiana has 10 offensive boards through the first 24 minutes of the basketball game.
Of course, winning is not of the utmost importance in this one. The Hawks have secured the No. 5 spot in the Eastern Conference. The Pacers sneaked in with the eighth spot in the East. Neither team can move up any higher or go any lower in the playoff chase.
As a result, guys like Josh Powell and Etan Thomas have gotten extended minutes for the Hawks.
Kirk Hinrich posted 10 points and Jamal Crawford nine for Atlanta, which is seeking its 10th straight win over Indiana.