Siakam helps Pacers rally in his Toronto return

Pascal Siakam had 23 points to lead the Indiana Pacers past the Raptors 127-125 on Wednesday in his return to Toronto.

TORONTO – Pascal Siakam had 23 points to lead the Indiana Pacers past the Raptors 127-125 on Wednesday in his return to Toronto.

Siakam also had seven assists and five rebounds for Indiana (31-25) since he was traded from the Raptors on Jan. 17.

Siakam spent the first eight years of his professional career in Toronto and was a key part of its 2019 championship team.

Tyrese Haliburton and Isaiah Jackson each had a double-double for the Pacers. Haliburton scored 21 points and added 12 assists, with Jackson adding 15 points with 11 boards.

Andrew Nembhard of Aurora, Ont., had 14 points, five assists and three rebounds.

Scottie Barnes had a double-double with 29 points and 12 rebounds for Toronto (19-36). RJ Barrett of Mississauga, Ont., had 23 points and nine boards.

Every time Siakam appeared on Scotiabank Arena’s video monitors during the singing of the national anthems the sold-out crowd of 19,800 cheered. He was also the last player announced during the Pacers’ team introductions, with a lengthy video tribute playing to officially welcome him to the court.

Siakam was standing near centre court when the lights came back on, putting his hand to his heart and then extending his arms to give thanks to the crowd.