Indiana Pacers: 5 storylines to watch for in training camp

The Indiana Pacers may have a battle of backup bigs awaiting them

To whatever degree, the upcoming campaign will be a statement year for third-year center Goga Bitadze. After underachieving in his first two seasons, albeit largely due to limited opportunity, he will have to prove himself as a reliable piece for the Indiana Pacers. However, the backup center role may not have his name etched on it for the following campaign.

Unlike in previous years, Bitadze will now have a competitor for the backup role in rookie Isaiah Jackson. A first-round pick in the deep 2021 NBA Draft, the coaching staff and front office have both raved about the Kentucky product, with Kevin Pritchard himself acknowledging him to be the Pacers’ best athlete since Paul George. Coach Carlisle sung praises for the young gun, pointing out his “breathtaking” defense.

Ultimately, this mini-competition for the backup center spot will be beneficial for the team. Both Bitadze and Jackson have varying skillsets that can serve the Pacers well in different situations. And given coach Carlisle’s penchant for altering his big man rotation to match the opponent, Indiana having different options in the position should make for some interesting combinations and strategies on the floor.