As the Indiana Pacers approach the 2024-25 season’s quarter mark, their journey has been a mix of highs and lows. Currently sitting at a 5-5 record, the Pacers have shown flashes of brilliance, punctuated by impressive wins and encouraging player development. However, persistent challenges like defensive lapses, rebounding issues, and injuries have made consistency elusive. This article dives into the Pacers’ early-season performance, examining their struggles, recent momentum, standout players, and areas for improvement as they look to solidify their place in a competitive Eastern Conference.
1. Slow Start
- Rough Opening: After a promising season opener, the Pacers struggled, dropping their next three games, including a notable loss to a Philadelphia 76ers team missing Joel Embiid and Paul George.
- All-stars Sluggish Start: Tyrese Haliburton looked a step slower than usual and was less aggressive offensively, which impacted the Pacers’ overall performance.
- Pace Concerns: The team’s signature fast pace, a core part of their identity last season, slowed down considerably, affecting their offensive rhythm.
- Old Problems Persist: The Pacers continue to struggle with rebounding and perimeter defense, which have plagued them for several seasons. These weaknesses were especially glaring in their loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, who were missing six players.
- Defensive Issues: The Pacers’ defensive struggles were notably exposed in their loss to the Charlotte Hornets, where they allowed a massive 23-2 run in the third quarter. Playing without Aaron Nesmith due to an ankle injury, Indiana’s defense crumbled in the second half, ultimately giving up a 13-point lead and falling apart under pressure. This game underscored their ongoing issues with maintaining defensive intensity throughout games.
2. Picking Up the Pace(r)
- Statement Win Against the Celtics: Indiana became the first team to beat the defending champs, the Boston Celtics, in a thrilling “Game of the Week.” Despite giving up an 18-point lead with roughly nine minutes remaining, they managed to win in overtime, marking a turning point and a morale boost for the team.
- Victory Over the Mavericks: The Pacers rebounded by defeating the Dallas Mavericks, showcasing their potential. Highlights included Myles Turner’s 30-point, 11-rebound performance in his hometown and Haliburton’s return to form with 25 points and 12 assists.
- Upcoming Game Against the Hornets: The Pacers face the Charlotte Hornets, who can beat any team any night. This matchup presents an opportunity for Indiana to test their perimeter defense against the best guard in the Eastern Conference this year in LaMelo Ball.
3. Bright Spots
- Young Star Development: Bennedict Mathurin’s play has been consistently positive for the Pacers. After battling inconsistent minutes early on, he has solidified his position with improved play, averaging 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. His aggressive drives to the rim give the team an additional offensive threat.
- Pascal’s Scoring Versatility: Pascal Siakam has been a stabilizing presence, leading the league in transition efficiency and shooting 41/54 in the paint and 44% from three. His versatility gives the Pacers a reliable scoring option when the offense stalls.
- Improved Defense: Although still ranked 27th in defensive rating, the Pacers’ defense has shown some improvement over last season. However, much of this rating reflects their inability to secure defensive rebounds, allowing for second-chance points.
- Ben Sheppard’s Emergence: Initially outside the rotation, Sheppard has fought his way into valuable minutes. His hustle and contributions, similar to TJ’s impact, go beyond the box score and make him a valuable asset on the court.
4. Low Points
- Haliburton’s Shooting Woes: Haliburton struggled with his shooting over the first few games, averaging 41% from the field, 27% from three, and 77% from the line. However, his strong performance against the Mavericks reminded fans of his capabilities and offered a glimpse of his potential resurgence.
- Injury Setbacks: The injury situation has worsened with Aaron Nesmith’s sprained ankle sidelining him until December, and Andrew Nembhard is now expected to miss at least two weeks due to knee soreness. These injuries have deepened the defensive woes, and Indiana’s overall depth has been tested, especially in games like the one against Charlotte, where their weakened rotation was evident.
- Defensive Lapses Against Stars: The Pacers were able to turn things around against the New York Knicks, but that game highlighted both strengths and vulnerabilities. Despite a strong offensive showing with a season-high 21 3-pointers and taking care of the ball (only 10 turnovers), the Pacers still had lapses against opposing stars like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, who combined for 63 points.
- Containing Stars: The Pacers continue to struggle against top players. Jayson Tatum’s 37 points, Tyrese Maxey’s 45, and Paolo Banchero’s 50 are the standouts. Also, Zion Williamson and Luka Dončić both had 34. The narrative of opponents achieving career nights against Indiana remains intact.
5. What’s Next?
- Recent Highlights and Upcoming Challenges: Indiana’s 132-121 win over the Knicks showed flashes of their potential when their offense clicked. Benedict Mathurin’s career-high 38 points and Tyrese Haliburton’s 35 points and 14 assists carried Indiana to victory. However, maintaining consistency will be key as they prepare to host the Knicks and later visit Orlando.
- Interest in JaVale McGee: The Pacers are reportedly interested in acquiring JaVale McGee to strengthen their backup center position.
- Experimenting with Small Ball and Zone Defense: To address defensive struggles and lack of size, the Pacers are exploring small-ball lineups. They have also implemented a zone defense, which could add new dimensions to their defense.
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