Indiana Pacers guard Victor Oladipo has decided against participating in the NBA’s restart in Orlando. Oladipo joins a growing list of players not making the trip to Florida, including DeAndre Jordan, Avery Bradley, and Trevor Ariza.
What Victor Oladipo’s Opt-Out Means for the Indiana Pacers
Victor Oladipo Opts Out of Orlando Restart Citing Rehab Concerns
Oladipo has decided to opt-out of playing in the 2019-20 restart in Orlando. Per The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Oladipo cited his quad injury from late in the 2018-19 season as one of the main reasons for his decision.
“I have to be smart and this decision hasn’t been easy, but I truly believe continuing on the course I’m on and getting healthy for 2020-21 season is the right decision for me,” Oladipo said.
While Oladipo has decided not to play, he will travel with the team to Orlando to continue his rehab.
What This Means for the Indiana Pacers
With Oladipo’s absence, the Pacers will have to rely on players like Damontas Sabonis, Malcolm Brogdon, and Myles Turner, as well as role players like T.J. McConnell and Doug McDermott. However, Oladipo only appeared in thirteen games this season and was still on a minutes restriction. It may be less of a loss than if Indiana was losing a fully healthy Oladipo.
Even with Oladipo missing much of the season, the Pacers have played themselves into fifth in the Eastern Conference. Indiana is a well-balanced team, with everyone from their starters to their role players contributing to wins. Sabonis has emerged as an All-Star and has averaged 18 points and 12 rebounds. Head coach Nate McMillan has been in the Coach of the Year discussions for the past few seasons. It has taken a team effort and great coaching to put the Pacers in this position.
Without Oladipo, Indiana will hope that they can get the same consistency from their roster to have success in Orlando.
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
