Sabonis has taken a step forward each year he has been in the league. Last season, Sabonis primary came off the bench for the Pacers. And he found some real success being their backup center. This season he has transitioned to the power forward and joined the starting lineup, and so far he seems to be fitting right in.
Domantas is currently averaging a double-double, scoring 23 points a night and pulling down 10 rebounds. Up from 14 points and nine rebounds last season. He has been an absolute animal down low through the Pacers’ first four games of the season. He looks to have gotten even stronger from last year, which is a daunting thought to someone meeting him in the paint. Just ask DeAndre Jordan.
https://twitter.com/Pacers/status/1189690081738665990
With this Pacers team being a majority new players, they need someone who is familiar with the organization and offense to make life easier on the new guys while they get adjusted to things. And I am sure NBA assist leader Malcolm Brogdon is thankful for that. The pick and roll with these two have been deadly so far this season. This is just one example.
https://twitter.com/Pacers/status/1189702136348790785
And a lot more of this is expected as the season continues on and this team continues to gel.
This season presented a challenge for Domas, as he was asked to play a new position when he joined the starting lineup. But he has taken it in stride and has adapted with confidence. He looks comfortable guarding the 4 position, and has even stepped outside and knocked down 3-pointers this season.
With Myles Turner‘s recent ankle injury, Domas is going to be asked to play a lot of minutes. At both the 4 and the 5, potentially. But, Domas is up for the challenge. He’s a gamer. And he looks poised to take that step towards becoming an All-star.