Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle recently spoke about Tyrese Haliburton's attitude always being positive no matter the situation, and that's what makes him special. As the team prepares for a gap year, fans might benefit from having that same mentality.
Even though the team is fresh off a magical run, not all has gone well for the Pacers over the last month. They lost in Game 7 of the NBA Finals, Haliurton suffered an Achilles injury that will sideline him for next season, and long-time big man Myles Turner joined the Milwaukee Bucks in free agency
As the Pacers look to navigate what looks like a dark year, it is important to remember that they still have a bright future, and it is likely that their star guard will return to his old self soon enough. It may look grim right now, but there is a lot to like about the Pacers' long-term future, even if it may not seem that way at the moment.
The Pacers still have an incredibly talented roster
Haliburton was their engine, and Turner played a big role in the team's success last season. However, even without them, the Pacers have a lot of talent and promise.
Arguably the main storyline to follow next season is how Indiana will switch things up, particularly regarding giving their younger guys expanded roles. With Haliburton on the shelf, Andrew Nembhard is in a good position to take the reins at point for a year. Additionally, next season will be make-or-break for Bennedict Mathurin and Jarace Walker, whose futures with the Pacers are still up in the air. There are also a lot of other players to keep an eye on, such as Isaiah Jackson and Johnny Furphy.
The Pacers are still young and talented. Furthermore, they play in a weak Eastern Conference that looks to be wide-open. Another deep playoff run is unlikely. And a second consecutive NBA Finals appearance looks borderline impossible. However, they still have what it takes to make some noise next year.
Even with next season looking a bit dark, there are a few silver linings to take away. Above all else, no matter what, there are reasons to believe that the Pacers can re-establish themselves as legitimate title contenders sooner rather than later.
There is no doubt that Indiana still has some things to work out. It remains to be seen what will come of their center committee, and a few of their younger players are fighting for a role or another contract. However, even so, their long-term outlook is promising, and it would not be a surprise if they make it back to the NBA Finals within the next few years.
Like Carlisle says, Haliburton is always upbeat, and he looks at things positively. As the Pacers approach an uncertain season, it is important for fans to look at things the same way. After all, they were just in the NBA Finals less than a month ago, and they have what it takes to make it back once again. It's just about being patient.