The Indiana Pacers have a backup center problem

The Indiana Pacers used their depth to make the Eastern Conference Finals. They had the number-one scoring bench in the NBA in the regular season and that carried over into the postseason. While most of the members of the bench were solid throughout, one position group struggled.

Whenever Myles Turner went to the bench, things became a problem. Jalen Smith played himself out of the rotation in the first round against the Milwaukee Bucks. In fact, Smith only played in seven playoff games. This was after he averaged 10 points and shot 42% from three in the regular season.

Isaiah Jackson had brief moments of brilliance against the Knicks. Game 4 was particularly impressive where he had 10 points and six rebounds. He played in 15 of the Pacers' playoff games. That game against the Knicks was the only one where he was able to consistently rebound though.

The Pacers need a better option at backup center

Against Boston, Jackson was -7 when he was on the floor. He doesn't space the floor and he can't dribble, so the only thing he can do is catch lobs. While T.J. McConnell is a great passer, He still might not stylistically fit with how the rest of the unit is put together. His defense is also still poor. He's a walking foul.

So what do the Pacers do? Do they just double-down on the small-ball lineups in the postseason with Siakam or Toppin at center and hope it doesn't hurt them? Or do they go out and try to get someone else to fill that void? Who would be the player that would fit that mold best?

Smith has a player option for next season. He's probably going to opt into it. Of the two backup centers they have, I'd prefer him to stay. He at least stretches the floor and can hit some threes. When he gets mean, he grabs rebounds with more force too. Smith just needs to get stronger.

As for who could possibly fill that role if they go out and get someone, Mason Plumlee would be a great option. He fluctuated in and out of the rotation once Daniel Theis got to Los Angeles, but he'd fit well in Indiana. He's a great rebounder, a skilled passer, and he can put the ball in the hoop when needed.

The best thing about Plumlee is that he's going to be cheap. He'd be a good option if the Pacers decide to upgrade that spot.