What Are Realistic Expectations for the Pacers This Season?

Sep 28, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; (left to right) Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis (11), forward Paul George (13), and guard George Hill (3) pose for a photo with coach Frank Vogel during media day at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 28, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; (left to right) Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis (11), forward Paul George (13), and guard George Hill (3) pose for a photo with coach Frank Vogel during media day at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
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Sep 28, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; (left to right) Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis (11), forward Paul George (13), and guard George Hill (3) pose for a photo during media day at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 28, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; (left to right) Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis (11), forward Paul George (13), and guard George Hill (3) pose for a photo during media day at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

With the beginning of the Indiana Pacers season inching closer and closer, Bankers Life Fieldhouse is abuzz with a palpable excitement over the upcoming season. With a new-look roster, a new game plan, and Paul George healthy it is hard to remember a season with so much intrigue.

Unlike past seasons, the Pacers are far from favorites this season. Many forecasters even have the team slated to miss the playoffs. Of course the Pacers fans malign those who doubt their beloved blue and gold — any fan would. But there is plenty of concern when it comes to the Pacers roster make-up.

Don’t burn me at the stake. There are numerous question marks lingering as we enter the 2015-16 season. Not everything can always be unicorns and rainbows all the time.

With all these questions, I believe it is fair to ask what would realistic expectations for the team look like? How will this season be considered a success?

As we embark on this journey of expectations, we will examine all of the pros and cons. I implore you to read the information with an open and realistic mind because I know how dearly fans hold their teams and view their potential success.

Next: The Pros