Preview: Suns Hope to Extend Winning Streak vs Pacers

The Suns are looking to extend their seven-game winning streak.

PHOENIX -- The Phoenix Suns (26-18) are looking to extend their NBA best seven-game win streak as they continue their road trip against the Indiana Pacers (25-20). 

The Suns are the hottest team in the NBA- rising to the West's No. 5 seed less than a week after bring firmly in the play-in tournament picture.

The Pacers are currently sitting at the No. 6 seed in the East following a Thursday night in which they reigned victorious against the Philadelphia 76ers. 

Three storylines to watch going into the matchup:

Siakam Enjoys Big Night 

Indiana's big splash in an effort to expedite contention around All-NBA guard Tyrese Haliburton was acquiring Pascal Siakam from the Toronto Raptors last Wednesday.

Siakam has played in four games since the acquisition. 

The talented forward had something of an adjusting period in the first three contests on his new squad - boasting averages of 17.3/6.7/4.7 without much impact on the defensive end.

The slow start turned into a leap on Thursday night. 

Siakam recorded his first triple double of the season in a huge win against the 76ers where he collected 26 points and 13 rebounds while dishing out 10 assists in the process. 

Siakam was also a massive +30 in the 30 minutes he was active during the game. 

The former Raptor once again flashed the All-NBA ability he has and should be a point of focus for the Suns, even with Indiana playing a back-to-back.

How Will Pacers Navigate Hali's Absence? 

While Siakam will presumably play tonight, Tyrese Haliburton has already been ruled out. 

Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle already ruled Haliburton out for at least three games several days ago - with Phoenix's matchup included. 

While it's clear the Iowa State product is the Pacers' franchise player and leader, the Pacers have found some success when he has unfortunately had to sit out of games. 

Indiana proved they can be more than just a one-player squad against the Suns despite losing in a close game on Sunday night. 

T.J. McConnell, Andrew Nembhard, Jalen Smith and more are examples of talented players that make up an extremely cohesive and potent offense, Haliburton or not. 

While the All-Star Game starter is clearly a phenomenal engine to the Pacers offense, the system and sheer volume of good NBA players on Indiana's roster makes them a tough out regardless of who's playing. 

Player to Watch: T.J. McConnell 

McConnell has been a long-coveted player by Phoenix, and understandably so. 

The former University of Arizona standout has been an impact player for nearly a decade in the league. 

The pure point guard has found a niche in the NBA with a game predicated around tough-nosed defense, nifty facilitating, and sneaky athleticism. 

He's also produced two strong scoring games in the last five despite a couple of quiet performances mixed in. 

Don't be surprised if McConnell is at the forefront of the Pacers being competitive in the game tonight - although Indiana being a deep team can't be overstated enough.

Phoenix and Indiana are set to tip off shortly after 5:00 PM Arizona time this evening.