1. The Indiana Pacers’ assertiveness using their size advantage will be key as they seek to improve their record
While the Pacers’ record is puny compared to the Bulls’, their size advantage was a key component in their victory. With Chicago already missing the services of Nikola Vucevic and Patrick Williams, Indiana was assertive and physical all night, pummeling their opponents inside.
The Blue and Gold badly outrebounded their counterparts, 59-38, tallying their most boards in a game this season. I’ve previously pointed out that this is a much improved rebounding team, and sustaining that play on the boards will be crucial. In fact, the Pacers are 6-2 so far when winning the rebounding battle (or ending in a deadlock on the boards).
Indy also dominated inside, registering 46 points in the paint against Chicago’s 32. Feeding Domantas Sabonis or Myles Turner on the block more, especially against small-ball teams, will give the Pacers a lot more cushion to play with on the offensive end while giving them a chance to punish smaller squads with their offensive rebounding.