I agree as well. I think one thing the "national press" and evidently Vegas are forgetting is how tough the defense was the 2nd half of the year and through the playoffs. I think though this group without Hali and Myles will be less adept offensively, I think this group might actually be better defensively. Mathurin has been a hard fit on offense but his defense in the playoffs was mostly solid. I think this is more of a "House Money" year than a "Gap Year" as many pundits are claiming. The Pacers could make some big noise, be a tough out, and development some of the young guys and then make a big run next year or it does end up more of a gap year, they either develop or better understand the limitations of their young guys, get a lottery draft pick and maybe make some trades to position for a big run next year. I also agree with Hali that the culture and expectations of how the team plays aren't changing and I think that makes a huge difference in the NBA regular season. Over .500 for sure, 5 to 7 in the playoff spot, play super tough in the playoffs and make it to the 2nd or are at least a tough out in the 1st round.
Agree 100% Bob. Well thought out predictions.
I agree as well. I think one thing the "national press" and evidently Vegas are forgetting is how tough the defense was the 2nd half of the year and through the playoffs. I think though this group without Hali and Myles will be less adept offensively, I think this group might actually be better defensively. Mathurin has been a hard fit on offense but his defense in the playoffs was mostly solid. I think this is more of a "House Money" year than a "Gap Year" as many pundits are claiming. The Pacers could make some big noise, be a tough out, and development some of the young guys and then make a big run next year or it does end up more of a gap year, they either develop or better understand the limitations of their young guys, get a lottery draft pick and maybe make some trades to position for a big run next year. I also agree with Hali that the culture and expectations of how the team plays aren't changing and I think that makes a huge difference in the NBA regular season. Over .500 for sure, 5 to 7 in the playoff spot, play super tough in the playoffs and make it to the 2nd or are at least a tough out in the 1st round.
Jarace Walker and Isaiah Jackson 👀
What’s the plan for Johnny Furphy ?