07-11-2017, 05:28 PM
|
#4
|
Rookie
|
Re: Blue Collar. Gold Swagger. Indiana's Team.
WHAT GIVES, PRITCH?
July 6, 2017
Indianapolis, IN
2016-2017 was a tumultuous season that ultimately ended in disappointment for the Indiana Pacers. Highlighting a season that ended in a first round exit of the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Pacers saw steady improvement in their youth - namely Myles Turner and Glenn Robinson III. Jeff Teague, Indy's crown acquisition over the summer, failed to meet expectations as the departure of homegrown George Hill loomed heavy over the franchise.
Franchise cornerstone Paul George, surrounded by rumors following the season, was dealt for pennies on the dollar to a youthful Oklahoma City team that dumped the massive salary of Victor Oladipo, an Indiana University alum, and Domantas Sabonis, a second year man from Gonzaga. Veteran Monta Ellis was released soon afterwards, with the two sides agreeing to a undisclosed buyout - rumored in the $17-$19M range. Journeyman sharpshooter CJ Miles agreed to a S&T on his way out the door, a show of good faith from the dynamic forward - in his stead, Cory Joseph joins the squad.
It's a sink or swim league, and the Pacers have decided to tread water for the time being. Understanding how to capitalize off of our situation with team ownership will prove to be valuable to the seasons ahead.
Enter Myles Turner. The capable third year man out of Texas jumped at the opportunity to step up and become a leader of the new fledgling Pacers. 2017 first round draft pick TJ Leaf will look to gain some valuable experience early on - the youth product from UCLA was rumored to be hoping for a selection from Indy - once again sparking life into the fanbase, energized by the thought of a player wanting to join instead of leave. Second round selections Ike Anigbogu and Edmund Sumner join the Summer League squad in hopes of a roster spot come October. The Pacers have made it known that they intend to compete and surround budding star Myles Turner with talent, starting on day one.
Early rumors in free agency have suggested the Pacers have inquired about shooter Bojan Bogdanovic from Washington, and veteran point Darren Collison. Collison, the former Pacer, has stated publicly Indy is his preferred destination.
Is this the catalyst for your 2017-2018 Indiana Pacers? Time will tell. For certain, the team will be exciting - the recent youth infusion of Oladipo, Sabonis, Leaf, Anigbogu, and Sumner attest to that. Will the savvy signings of elder statesmen Collison and Bojan secure a top 8 bid in the rattled East?
Last edited by justaguyfromindy; 07-12-2017 at 12:16 AM.
|
|
|