You have to believe that the Pacers are happy to be home after a couple of losses out across the world. This a team with high hopes for the season, and going 0-3 so far this preseason are making fans a bit worried. But I do believe that things will straighten out once the regular season gets going, even if it takes a little longer than anticipated. But this team has to be proud of the fact they got to experience a trip many people will never get to. They were part of the first preseason game over in the Philippines, and I can’t imagine there’s ever been a regular season game over there, but someone can correct me if I am wrong about that. So that’s something to be proud of. The exposure of this team to a whole new continent is awesome, I believe. You could see some business exposure for the Pacers organization overall, and you might have made some new Pacer fans for the team. Two great aspects of why you make that long trip over there, and play a game.
Then you got to experience the homecoming for Jeremy Lin in Taiwan, which I am sure was awesome. The game might not have been so awesome on the Pacers’ side, but still that experience of opening our team to a whole different country has to speak volumes for where they are at. I’ll say it again, you think a few years ago, this Pacers team is being invited to do something like this?
Paul George looks to be rounding into form as he’s hit for double figures in each of the preseason games. That’s right where he needs to be this season, and as long as he’s consistent with that, he’ll be another All Star contender, and this team will be better. It’s all about coming out strong from the start, and making sure his game is ready to go.
George Hill left the last game with a mild ankle sprain, which hopefully is all good to go soon. Hill is that one Pacer that I believe doesn’t always get the credit for what he can do on the floor, and that’s probably okay with him. But for a guy just stepping into that point guard role a few seasons ago, he’s ready stepped into it nicely. He’s a guy that just stays even keeled during the game, and has that bit of floor leadership you want in the point guard. He’s a guy that can create for himself and create for others. As long as this is just a small injury, the Pacers will be fine. Losing any of the starters would be something that could hurt this team as they lean so heavily on those five starting guys. But I think this is just a small injury, and Hill should be fine in a short time.
Overall, it’s time to head back to the gym, work on the game, and get a preseason win against the Dallas Mavericks to show that the Pacers are getting back into form. I will say again, it is just some preseason games, and not too much to be worried about as the team has been right there in games for the most part. Some minor improvements and things will be fine.