Indiana Pacers: Why Domantas Sabonis will dictate how far the team can go

In recent years, the Indiana Pacers have largely been feel-good stories in the association. Before last season’s fumble, the Blue and Gold managed to relatively overachieve for three straight years, firmly cementing themselves among the East’s most potent squads despite lacking a true superstar.

However, as it is with typical feel-good stories, even a single clinker can prompt people to turn a blind eye on these positive tales. For the Pacers, which missed the playoffs for the first time in six seasons in the prior campaign after a myriad of injuries in a COVID-stricken year and a coaching turmoil, hopes entering the following campaign aren’t too lustrous this time around.

The Indiana Pacers should be back on the mix next season

Despite proving its mettle in years past with the same core, expectations for Indiana range from a measly playoff seed to a play-in spot. Fortunately, the Pacers boast a lot of ammo to harp a better hymn this season and possibly break out.

From a well-rounded starting unit, a deep cast of reserves and a new championship coach in Rick Carlisle manning the sidelines, Indiana, at its best, has the tools to return to its placement as the East’s perennial wildcard. Still, how far they can go could very well be dictated by their best player, two-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis.