Indiana Pacers: 10 best shooting guards in Indiana Pacers history
By Josh Wilson
The Indiana Pacers have rostered some of the most iconic shooting guards in NBA history. Here are their 10 best
For the Indiana Pacers, the shooting guard position is inarguably the most important position for the franchise over the course of its NBA existence. Even in the franchise’s most successful, title-winning years as a part of the ABA, their shooting guard was still a major key.
Topped off by an NBA legend and an ABA legend, the list of the 10 best shooting guards for the Pacers is one filled with talent. From blistering hot shooters to staunch all-around and perimeter defenders, the Pacers have had more talent at the two-position than they have at the one.
Taking a look at the cream of the crop, the top 10 in franchise history, let’s find out where players like Victor Oladipo — who is presently leading the team — and fan favorite Lance Stephenson rank, as well as who leads the way at No. 1.
10. John Long
John Long started over two of the league’s best up-and-coming shooting guards before they claimed their starting role.
With the Detroit Pistons, Long started over Joe Dumars for much of his rookie season. Arriving in Indiana after Dumars took over the starting role in Detroit, Long started over Reggie Miller in his debut season as well.
Long, in three seasons with the Pacers, averaged 12.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.0 assists. While he wasn’t an elite shooting guard by any means, he was servicable and bridged the gap between the previous era and the era of success championed by Miller.
Following Miller’s ascension, Long was waived by the Pacers, and the remainder of his career was much of the same, signing to give a team some depth, only to be waived shortly thereafter.