Indiana Pacers: 3 qualities to look for in the new head coach

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – MARCH 15: Victor Oladipo #4 of the Indiana Pacers returns to the bench during the game against the Toronto Raptors at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on March 15, 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 Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

Offensive creativity

One glaring issue for the Indiana Pacers during Nate McMillan’s tenure as head coach was the lack of creativity in the offense. Late game situations and after timeout plays – or ATOs – were disastrous at times. The Miami Heat were able to shut down Indiana in the playoffs thanks to Indiana insisting on attacking Bam Adebayo at the basket.

Since joining Indiana in 2015, Myles Turner has always been on the verge of a breakout season. He is a special player who can space the floor on offense while shutting down the paint on the other end. However, Indiana refuses to get him involved in the offense on a consistent basis, and his role is extremely limited. Turner, a 35 percent shooter from deep, only attempts 2.1 three-point shots per game.

In the 2019-20 playoffs, Indiana posted an offensive rating of 103.9, which was the fourth-worst of all playoffs teams. The offense has been too stagnant and has not evolved in-game for what feels like forever.

To make matters worse, Indiana is one of the better three-point shooting teams in the NBA. Last season, they finished 12th in three-point percentage but finished dead last in three-point attempts per game. In 2018-19, Indiana was ranked fifth in percentage but 29th in attempts.

With a roster that includes Doug McDermott, Justin Holiday, Victor Oladipo, and Myles Turner, Indiana needs to play to their strengths. Finding a coach that can open up the offense will take this team to the next level.

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