Indiana Pacers: One stud, one dud from the loss to the Brooklyn Nets

Torrey Craig turned in his best performance yet as a part of the Indiana Pacers

As a disclaimer, don’t let Torrey Craig‘s appearance as a victim in the will-be persistent KD crossover killer cloud your judgment.

After struggling with his shot to kick off his first season with the Indiana Pacers, new addition Craig turned in his best performance yet donning the Blue and Gold, pacing the team with an individual best 28 points and 11 rebounds on nine of 16 shooting, including an impressive four on seven from downtown.

With the Pacers reeling with their scoring attack, the defensive-minded forward popped off on offense, becoming a huge factor as the team started off sizzling in the first quarter. Indiana faltered since, but Craig’s energy and hustle plays, especially on the offensive boards, allowed them to stay within striking distance for the most part.

Plays like this will come a long way to enhancing the Pacers’ chances at getting more dubs as they get healthier and the schedule softens. With the team still struggling as a defensive unit, Craig will be pivotal as a stopper, especially against the likes of Kevin Durant.

If Craig keeps this up, don’t be surprised if Rick Carlisle bumps him up to the starting lineup, with TJ Warren still shelved indefinitely and Justin Holiday continuing to be subpar with his shooting and being not as sharp defensively.