The 2020-21 NBA season is here, and it is time for Indiana Pacers fans to forgive Victor Oladipo.
Few have ever doubted the grit, toughness, or determination of the Indiana Pacers since their birth in the ABA way back in 1967. There have been a few exceptions that called for pessimism among the fan base, but Hoosiers are not known to complain. They put their heads down, get to work, and make the best of what they have.
Especially in a year that seemingly took everything society knew and loved and flipped it upside down, it’s time to begin the slow trot back to normalcy. It’s time for Pacer Nation to put their heads down and focus on what is important, forget about all the drama that was 2020.
Victor Oladipo says he's fully committed to the Pacers. pic.twitter.com/Uf2LGqF7Ro
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) November 13, 2020
“Oladipo: does he want to be in Indiana? Doesn’t he?”
It has been asked a million times. It will continue to be asked of Oladipo and every other star player that puts on a Pacers jersey for the rest of time. That is the burden of being a small-market team. Other teams are willing to offer more money, security, or championship pedigree. It’s no longer a surprise.
The former Indiana Hoosiers hero and pleasant surprise out of the Paul George trade, Oladipo was seen as a savior to the franchise not long ago. He proved to be a strong defensive presence and clutch performer that helped the franchise overachieve in the eyes of most during his first season. None of Oladipo’s achievements from the 2017-18 campaign are important now.
What’s important is that Nate Bjorkgren brings a fresh, modern approach to the game. What’s important is that T.J. Warren carries over the momentum from his bubble performance over the summer. What’s important is that Domantas Sabonis and Malcolm Brogdon are healthy, and Jeremy Lamb is not far behind. What’s important is the development of Goga Bitadze, Aaron Holiday, Edmond Sumner, and Cassius Stanley.
What’s important is that fans move on from the Oladipo saga and focus on a new season. If he returns to the Oladipo of old, great. If not, the season will (hopefully) go on and the Pacers will continue to surprise critics.
The Pacers’ front office is confident in this team or they wouldn’t be running it back with virtually the same roster. They are confident because this team has proven they are capable of competing with the best teams in the league while battling injuries and salary restrictions.
Let’s forgive VO. Stop worrying about whether he can stay healthy or how much longer he will wear that Pacers jersey. Whether he should still be a Pacer or not, he’s on the roster and will wear the blue and gold on the opening night of the 2020-21 campaign.
Let’s put our heads down and get past the critics, concerns, and small-market woes. We have to trust that Oladipo and the entire organization are going to go to work every day and progress towards a common goal. The roster is set. The staff and front office are in place. It’s too late to make changes now.
As usual, the Indiana Pacers will likely overachieve regardless of where their true ceiling lies. Don’t spend too much time focusing on all the bad things. Injuries happen. Get past Oladipo’s decision making.