3 positives, 2 negatives from Pacers In-Season Tournament win vs. 76ers
By Mueez Azfar
Positive: Rebounding finally up to par
This was a relief to see. Following the Pacers loss on Sunday, the main focus was put on the rebounding difference, which was staggering, to say the least.
On Sunday, the Pacers were out-rebounded by the Sixers in every facet. In short, the Pacers grabbed eight offensive rebounds compared to Philly's 23, and they snagged 23 defensive rebounds compared to Philly's 31, which led to a staggering 32 to 54 rebound difference. This was the key reason the Pacers lost the game.
Tuesday was, thankfully, a different story. On the night, the Pacers grabbed 10 offensive rebounds compared to the Sixers five. While they still were out-rebounded defensively, getting 31 compared to Philly's 33, they ultimately won the rebound battle, pulling down 41 rebounds compared to Philly's 38, a massive improvement from the sheer lack of rebounding displayed on Sunday.
Rebounding wins championships, and the Pacers showed a fantastic display of improvement on a game-by-game basis as they corrected their errors from the past game en route to a victory against the same team.
Overall, while the Pacers still struggle with rebounding, ranking among the worst in the league, Tuesday's improvements in that category will hopefully go a long way in getting this team their hustle back and getting them back up to around middle of the pack when it comes to rebounds.