Roster Matchup 2k21: Comparing the Indiana Pacers and the Miami Heat
Will the Indiana Pacers’ bench trump the Miami Heat’s second unit
Indiana Pacers Main Bench: TJ McConnell, Chris Duarte, Jeremy Lamb, Edmond Sumner, Justin Holiday, Oshae Brissett, Torrey Craig, Goga Bitadze, Isaiah Jackson
On paper, the Indiana Pacers’ second unit is perhaps one of the deepest in the entire association. Headed by McConnell, the Blue and Golds’ bench catalyst, as well as veteran scorer Lamb, the ever-reliable Holiday and new addition Craig, two legitimate three-and-D wings, the second unit is filled with experienced and quality role players.
Also, Indy’s bench now has a refreshing infusion of youth with players who boast tremendous upside. Duarte, their lottery pick, and Jackson, their other first-round acquisition in the draft, appear to be polished enough to warrant minutes from the get-go. Meanwhile, the upstart Brissett and the improving Sumner could be in line for more minutes this season, especially if injuries haunt the Pacers once more. Lastly, virtually all fans of the team will want a bigger serving of Bitadze’s unique skillset at center, right?
Miami Heat Main Bench: Gabe Vincent, Victor Oladipo, Tyler Herro, Max Strus, KZ Okpala, Markieff Morris, Dewayne Dedmon, Omer Yurtseven
Compared to Indiana, Miami’s second unit is more top-heavy. With a familiar face in former All-Star and Pacer Oladipo leading the way with explosive scorer Herro, who could break out after a sophomore slump, their bench is loaded with firepower that should allow them to dig the team out of holes quickly while extending leads.
Beyond that, however, the bench is rounded out by unproven commodities or solid, yet limited role players. Vincent, Strus and Okpala need a tremendous leap next season to justify a heavier dose of minutes. Veterans Morris and Dedmon form a solid stretch big man combination off the bench, but both are limited in most departments. However, Summer League wonder Yurtseven may turn out to be a rotation player down the line.