"Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel didn't hold back on expectations for his players Saturday night against the Boston Celtics.

He didn't refer to this as just one of 66 games on the schedule. He didn't talk about it being the second game of a back-to-back, either.

Vogel called their matchup against the aging but still talented Celtics a barometer game.

He wanted to send a message to the Celtics and the rest of the NBA that the Pacers' strong start isn't a fluke.

Vogel's players grabbed what he told them and took off.

The Pacers ran the ball down Boston's throat and easily beat the Celtics 97-83 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse."