In loss to Grizzlies, the Pacers witness the rewards of a rebuild

They may never say it expressly, but the Indiana Pacers are clearly off-track from their usual escapade to chase as many wins as possible, despite the ceiling. With a forgettable campaign on the wins department behind them, the realization of a bigger and more valuable goal still makes this season a jot down on the list of things to celebrate somehow.

The Pacers may be in for a long process of embracing the wave of a rebuild (or a retool, or whatever nomenclature defines their current state), but in the NBA, rooting success on the waiting game is a pretty viable thing to bank on. And last night, Indiana witnessed it first hand in an ugly loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.

The Indiana Pacers could learn a lesson or two from the upstart Memphis Grizzlies

Sans franchise star Ja Morant, the Grizzlies remained a formidable bunch, beating the Pacers handily before they even knew it. People may give them the hark of doubt about their chances on a championship this season, but the very fact that they’re even in the discussion after treading through mediocrity in recent years is evidence that with the right moves and a dash of luck, rebuilding can take you places.

While more definitive favorites surround them left and right, one edge that Memphis has is the solid backing of a brighter future. Veteran championship cores have a shelf life to them, and with Father Time still unbeaten at large, the Grizzlies have the makings of a great force for a long time.

Envious? Well, the Pacers could learn a thing or two from the Grizzlies blueprint.