Indiana Pacers: Backing Into The Playoffs
The Indiana Pacers are in a heated race to make the playoffs in the Eastern Conference
The Indiana Pacers have had a rough time the past few weeks, even dropping to the ninth seed for a few games. Yet, after back-to-back wins over the Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks – both quality wins – Indiana is in the driver’s seat to secure one of the final two playoff spots in the East.
Ironically, the Pacers have looked more alive since the they brought back Lance Stephenson, a fan-favorite. During his first three games with Indy, Stephenson has averaged eight points and three assists off the bench. Stephenson was brought on after Indiana decided to cut the injured Rodney Stuckey.
Even though the Pacers have looked better as of late, they still have to stop being so inconsistent. Just before the NBA All-Star break, the Pacers went on a seven-game winning streak, and then closed their first half of the season up on a six-game losing streak. Inconsistency.
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When asked about a contract extension, Paul George has been pretty clear about his demands.
"“As I told Larry, I always want to play on a winning team.”"
But, as you can see, being so inconsistent is killing the Indiana Pacers. One week, the team is on a seven-game winning streak, the next they’re erasing all they success they’ve built with a six-game slide.
If the Pacers ever want to win an NBA Title, this needs to stop happening. If they don’t tread lightly, this inconsistency could result in losing their franchise player.
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Looking objectionably, the Indiana Pacers will likely be one of the last two teams to make the playoffs in the East. They have one of the best small forwards in the game, and I think that’s what will push – or back – them into the playoffs.