Could the Indiana Pacers find perimeter help in the draft?
A big concern for the Indiana Pacers last season was the lack of three-point shooting. In today’s NBA, having the ability to spread the floor and knock down threes is a vital part of any offense. Indiana has struggled to score from deep lately, but they could find some draft sleepers with shooting upside.
Whether guys fall in the draft due to age, injury, or inconsistency, second-round gems can be found. This year, three players stand out thanks to their ability to score from beyond the arc. Here are some prospects who may provide Indiana with buckets off the bench.
Sam Merrill – SG (Utah State)
Sam Merrill is one of the most impressive offensive players in this class but he will turn 25 before his rookie season comes to an end. Merrill started 118 games at Utah State and was a pure scorer the entire time. He averaged 16.6 points per game throughout his career, including 20.3 points per game over his final two seasons.
Merrill is an elite perimeter shooter. In each of his four seasons, he converted on at least 37 percent of his attempts from deep. He shot 42 percent from range throughout his career and shot an incredible 46.4 percent during his sophomore season.
He may be older than other prospects in this draft but Sam Merrill has the experience and shooting ability that Indiana needs. If he can carry that production over to the next level, he will make an impact for whichever team snags him in the draft.