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What teams should Pacers fans be excited to play against in 2023-24?

ByJosh Rendall|
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 11: A view of the Indiana Pacers logo on their uniform during the game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on February 11, 2023 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 11: A view of the Indiana Pacers logo on their uniform during the game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on February 11, 2023 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)

There’s not an official release of the 2023-24 NBA schedule, but it is coming in the next month or so. Obviously, playing on national television is always something fans look forward to (Christmas Day anyone?), but I’m not sure we can count on much of that at the moment. Instead of thinking about dates to circle, let’s look at 5 opponents that the Pacers should be excited about playing against during the season.

5. Boston Celtics

The Celtics are going to be an interesting team to watch after losing the Eastern Conference finals to the Miami Heat. They have a good team returning again this season and adding Kristaps Porzingis may be the missing piece. Porzingis has played well against Indiana at times, and I wouldn’t expect anything else from him this year. The Celtics are a good test for the Pacers as a benchmark for the season, too.

4. Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James will be back for another season with the Lakers. If you are a Pacers fan, try to see James in Indianapolis if you can. Who knows how much longer fans will be able to watch King James at his craft. I know there are differing opinions to if he is the GOAT, but everyone would agree he is one of the greatest. LeBron has had some iconic moments against the Pacers in the past, and you never know what you will see each night in the NBA.

3. Denver Nuggets

I’m not just saying it because of this past year’s championship, but you need to watch Nikola Jokic play if you haven’t. He is going to go down as one of the greats to ever play the game, so you owe it to yourself to watch him at least once. I am always in awe of how he makes the game look so easy and plays at his pace. Add Bruce Brown coming over from the NBA champs, and we have the makings of a good game.

2. San Antonio Spurs

I feel that the Spurs are going to be a hot ticket, especially early in the year, to see the #1 pick in the draft – Victor Wembanyama. This is assuming that he is healthy when he plays the Blue and Gold, which I hope he is able to play throughout the whole year. I’m interested to see the big man in action against Myles Turner. I know Turner will be up to the challenge, and I hope for a great game against San Antonio.

1. Sacramento Kings

This is a game as a fan that should be circled for obvious reasons. It’s a matchup of a huge trade that worked out for both teams. At this point, the Pacers have to feel great about the return of Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield for Domatas Sabonis, and the players will forever be linked together. Any matchup like this is must see, but this game gets more interesting in 2023-24 as both teams are trending in the right direction. I would expect this game to be high scoring with lots of possessions and highlights. Enjoy!

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