Indiana Pacers: Three things learned in win over Lakers
By Justin Byers
Pacers have two of the best reserve point guards in the NBA
Aaron Holiday and T.J. McConnell have brought new life to the Indiana Pacers. The two point guards have been integral to the Pacers’ recent surge of success.
In a league that has highlighted guard play the past few years, Holiday and McConnell have emerged as two of the most consistent second unit point guards in the NBA.
Coming off a season-high points performance against the Charlotte Hornets, where he scored 23 points, Holiday came into the matchup against the Lakers with the hot hand.
In 30 minutes of play, Holiday shot strong from distance with two three-pointers and would finish with 11 points, overall solid performance by a reserve point guard.
But what is great about this Pacers team is that another reserve point guard has been just as productive.
McConnell has been on a mission as of late and that continued with a 10-point performance against the Lakers.
McConnell would also have four assists. The point guard out of the University of Arizona would have that production with only 19 minutes of play.
21 points and eight assists aren’t bad for two second-unit point guards who vary in minutes played.
Holiday and McConnell allow the Pacers to turn to the second unit without a drop off in production or leadership on the floor.
McConnell, who is in his fifth season, has brought a sense of poise and energy to the Pacers’ second unit, while Holiday has brought an additional layer of athleticism and range.
The two varying styles of play between Holiday and McConnell have forced defenses outside of their comfort zone and have kept teams honest in defending the Pacers.
With Victor Oladipo’s return imminent, it will be interesting to see how the Pacers coaching staff handles the minutes of Holiday and McConnell.
Regardless of what they decide to do, the Pacers have two formidable reserve point guards who allow the Pacers to be placed in positions to succeed, no matter the circumstance or opponent.