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Pacers potential playoff opponents preview: Miami Heat

By Ben Renz

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 25: Victor Oladipo #4 of the Indiana Pacers and Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat embrace after the game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on March 25, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 25: Victor Oladipo #4 of the Indiana Pacers and Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat embrace after the game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on March 25, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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Thaddeus Young Dion Waiters Heat Pacers
MIAMI, FL – OCTOBER 21: Thaddeus Young /

Power Forward Matchup: Thaddeus Young v James Johnson

The James Johnson renaissance has continued into 2018, but Thad has quietly had another solid season for Indiana even with some slight downturns statistically – what’s with the 59.5 free-throw percentage, Thad? But Thad’s value really shows up in the On/Off numbers: with him in the lineup, the Pacers see a 3.2 uptick in Offensive Rating and opposing teams drop 3.7 points per 100 possessions.

James “Bloodsport” Johnson’s On/Offs aren’t so good. Opposing teams are 3.3 points per 100 better with Bloodsport on the court, and his offensive impact is negligible. Again, Johnson likely has the athleticism advantage, but Thad’s basketball IQ is too high for that to be much of an issue for Indiana.

Advantage: Pacers

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