The Indiana Pacers’ early success this season is impressive, with All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton leading the way. In the first 10 games of the season, the Pacers have scored 104 points or more every outing. They have scored over 120 points in eight of those games. Their well-rounded starting five and second unit can take credit for that. This team is young but hungry to compete now. If they can maintain a positive record by April, they should be in great shape to make the postseason.
How the Indiana Pacers’ Early Success Can Continue Through April
Maintain Diversity on Offense
The Pacers have a talented team that plays hard. What makes this team unique is that they can compete game in and out without a superstar. To start the season, seven players on the roster are averaging over 11 points a game. Other players, like Myles Turner and Bennedict Mathurin, have stepped up. Another important thing to note is only two players average more than 30 minutes a game (Bruce Brown and Haliburton). This bodes well for the Pacers, as fatigue doesn’t play a significant factor each game. If this team can continue to have production outside of Haliburton, it will bring success. Players are shooting with confidence and passing to the open man. This team is devoid of selfishness, a sign of a good squad.
Playing Team Defense
While the Pacers’ offense has been impressive, they have given up plenty of points. Indiana’s defense has given up 100+ points in every game as well. Because of how high-paced this team is, they are expected to give up big points. However, they will need to play tougher on the defensive end, including rebounding and stopping transition baskets. While their starting lineup is relatively small, Turner is a good rim protector. Look for this team to play scrappy in all facets of defense to overturn other teams’ potential size advantages.
Let Tyrese Haliburton Shine When Needed
Haliburton leads the team in scoring (23.8 PPG) and assists (12.2 APG). Ultimately, he does spearhead the team’s offense. With a high volume on offense, he will be the key to how far this team goes. When other players hit their shots, it provides one-on-one opportunities for him. Furthermore, Haliburton excels in the pick and roll, creating offense for himself and others. While the second unit so far this year has played at a high pace, Haliburton plays quickly and efficiently. There is a significant difference between when he’s off the court and when he’s on it. Allowing him to control the offense is a must. Essentially, this Indiana Pacers team has a real shot of playing postseason basketball. Although young, the team continues to gel and find their roles. If they keep up this level of play on offense while tightening up just a touch on the defensive end, then playing in April looks plausible.
