5 Under the Radar Keys Entering the Season For the Indiana Pacers
By Jordan Yant
Breaking down the 5 Under the Radar Keys Entering the Season For the Indiana Pacers.
As the season inches closer and closer, everyone knows the cliché major keys and questions that the Indiana Pacers face. Will Paul George return to full strength? How will Monta Ellis fit? Will Myles Turner start? Is aggressive George Hill a more permanent fixture?
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Those questions are all fine and good — but it is time to delve a little deeper into some keys that may not be so obvious.
When considering these points it seems important to point out that this Pacers roster is loaded with questions. With seven new players on the roster, there is no shortage of questions concerning the team.
First and foremost, Paul George is by far the biggest key to this season. His production is directly correlated to how far this team can go. Also his efficiency at the power forward position will be tested early. All early signs point to him getting the early start at the 4. Ellis is a nice addition, but another major key is just how productive the front court can be.
Jordan Hill has not lived up to his draft potential. Ian Mahinmi is a career back-up big man. Myles Turner is a rookie…and a 19-year-old rookie at that. It traditionally takes big men time to develop into a contributor, here’s hoping that is not the case when it comes to Turner’s impact.
With all of this being said, the Pacers have a multitude of other keys that factor into their ultimate success this season. Some may argue what would be considered a “good” season but it is pretty clear at this point. It is playoffs or bust. But don’t expect the Pacers to hanging a banner in the rafters at the end of the season by any means.
In an improving Eastern Conference, the playoffs should be the biggest goal of any Pacers fan. It will take time for the team to gel and learn a new offensive system. There are way too many new players on the roster for anyone to believe that they will be a well oiled machine right off the bat. Sure if they clicked at the right time they could make a little noise in the postseason. But temper your expectations, this team is in it for the long haul.
There are some underlying keys that may be more integral to success than many may realize. As we look at these keys, keep in mind that these are things that simply help put the team over the top. They may not be the solution, but they certainly are a part of it.
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