The Indiana Pacers selected Goga Bitadze in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft.
Despite having two capable big men on the roster, the Indiana Pacers decided to select center Goga Bitadze with their first selection in the 2019 NBA Draft. Bitadze would see limited playing time as a rookie but played better than anticipated in his first season. But what is next for the backup big man?
JaKarr Sampson signed a one-year deal with Indiana prior to last season and he played in 34 games. Sampson entered the starting lineup for 12 games as Indiana dealt with injuries and rest but his impending free agency should open the door for Goga’s minutes.
Goga was not overly productive in his limited minutes, averaging just 3.2 points, 0.4 assists, and 2.0 rebounds per appearance a season ago. However, his numbers per 36 minutes were on par with Myles Turner‘s. In 36 minutes, Turner averaged 14.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks.
Bitadze posted 13.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks under the same circumstances and appears to be a nice backup for Turner. His production also has to make Indiana wonder if he can take Turner’s place in the rotation if they want to trade the young center.
Whether Turner and Goga split minutes in 2021 or not, the Pacers must get the sophomore big on the floor. Their recent struggles with draft picks can be narrowed down to the simple fact that the Pacers do not get young guys on the floor to develop their game. T.J. Leaf was never really afforded an opportunity to play meaningful minutes on a consistent basis.
The Pacers can ride Goga Bitadze for valuable minutes off the bench next season as a floor-spacing shot blocker, just like Myles Turner. Keeping one of the two on the floor at all times would keep opposing defenses honest while also keeping them from attacking the rim at will.
Next season is a huge one for Goga’s development and I hope the new coaching staff finds a way to get him involved. At just 20 years old, Bitadze has a chance to be a quality role player on a playoff team.