Indiana Pacers: 3 conditions for a successful season

TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY 05: Malcom Brogdon #7 of the Indiana Pacers is introduced prior to the first half of an NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on February 05, 2020 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /

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Domantas Sabonis, Indiana Pacers – Credit: Doug McSchooler-USA TODAY Sports /

What would make the upcoming season a success for the Indiana Pacers?

The 2021-22 NBA season is just around the corner so it is time to start looking into the Indiana Pacers from a realistic perspective. Not every team is going to have the same target for success given how the rest of the league shapes up. Some teams are competing for the title while others are hoping to develop their young guys.

In Indiana, there is quite a mixed bag of what to expect this season. Some fans seem to think the Pacers have no chance at all in competing for a playoff spot while others are adamant that Indiana can challenge the top dogs in the Eastern Conference. For me, the Pacers are right in the middle of those two arguments.

I think they are capable of reaching the playoffs under Rick Carlisle but I also have a hard time imagining them getting through the Nets, Bucks, 76ers, or Heat. Indiana is a good team with a lot of talented players but they lack the one thing the others have: superstar talent.

With no single superstar available every night, Indiana is running the risk of their committee approach sputtering out of control. Everyone can share the rock and put up points but if a couple of guys have a bad night or a bad stretch, the Pacers will hit the wall hard.

What should their idea of success look like this season?

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