When the playoffs come around, most teams typically trim their rotation to ensure that their top guys play as much as possible. However, Rick Carlisle is doing the exact opposite for the Indiana Pacers, and it is allowing them to be as fresh as possible at all times.
In all six of their playoff games so far, the Pacers have run at least a 10-man rotation, which is a bit unusual. However, so far, it has clearly worked out for them as they are 5-1 in those games.
One of the Pacers' biggest strengths is their depth, and Carlisle is doing a fantastic job of using it to their advantage. The Pacers have one of the best bench units in the NBA, and relying on their depth allows their starters to get as much rest as possible.
Their series against Cleveland is not over just yet, but if they can continue to use their depth to their advantage, then the Pacers will be in a good spot not just for the rest of the series but for the rest of the playoffs.
The Pacers' rotation strategy should ensure a deep playoff run
Indiana has been known as one of the most resilient teams in the NBA that loves to wear down their opponents. This was evident during their conference finals run last year, and they are taking it to another level this season.
While their bench is not statistically as effective as they were last year, the Pacers are still getting good play out of their second unit. This includes Bennedict Mathurin, who played a crucial role in Indiana's Game 2 victory in Cleveland. As the Pacers look to keep wearing out their playoff opponents, they will continue to run with the strategy that has worked so well for them up to this point.
What makes the Pacers such a unique team in comparison to the rest of the teams in the playoffs is that they truly play team basketball. Each night, a different Pacer could lead the way on both sides of the ball. This is a unique situation for a team enjoying as much postseason success as the Pacers are right now, and a lot of that has to do with numerous players getting legitimate opportunities.
The Pacers are aiming to win two more games and send the Cavaliers home early, but they have made it clear that they have bigger playoff goals than that as well. As the Pacers look to make another conference finals appearance, they will continue to rely on what has gotten them this far in the first place.