3 Things Pacers fans should watch out for on season opener against the Wizards

3. Can the 2022-23 Indiana Pacers get better defensively?

Last season, the Indiana Pacers ranked 26th on defense, so there is obviously a lot of room to grow in that department. Playing without Myles Turner for the bulk of the season did not help, but that is no excuse to finish where they stood. If the team wants to get where they want to be, they are going to have to put it together on both ends.

The Pacers are going to have their hands full right from the jump with Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis. Both of these guys can shoot the ball and take over the game at any time. It will be interesting to see how the Pacers defend this duo. We may see a mix of Buddy Hield and Tyrese Haliburton on Beal, while Turner, Isaiah Jackson, and Jalen Smith could be tasked with guarding the Latvian big.

The Wizards also have some other guys that can make plays. Rui Hachimura is one that comes to mind. He is the definition of “3 and D” in the NBA. They also drafted Johnny Davis out of Wisconsin this year. This will be no walk in the park for the Pacers.

This game has so many storylines riding on it. Nevertheless, basketball season is here, folks. After a long wait, get ready for some Pacers Basketball!