In recent memory, teams consisting of two or three
superstars and a mediocre supporting cast have dominated the NBA, with some
championship organizations relying on these perennial all-stars to lead a
playoff run. Not to undermine what the Heat have done the past couple of years,
but they have led this rather unfortunate trend, and, until recently, there was
no hope of it every being put to an end. That’s where the Indiana Pacers come
in. Terrific front-office work and smart roster building have put the Pacers
atop the Eastern Conference as of November 17, with a record of 9-1, their
first loss coming last night.
Even more importantly, the Pacers are legitimate
title contenders, and aren’t being controlled by a “big three”. Sure, they have
the up-and-coming stud that is Paul George, but what makes Indiana so
formidable is their undeniable balance throughout the lineup. The
aforementioned George, potential NBA Defensive Player of the Year Roy Hibbert,
and the versatile shooting guard Lance Stephenson lead Frank Vogel’s squad, but
David West, George Hill, and newcomers Luis Scola and C.J. Watson contribute
day in and day out. The perfect combination of youth and experience, offensive
fluidity and defensive prowess, size and speed, have made the Pacers a force to
be reckoned with. However, only time will tell if they can overcome the likes
of the Clippers, Heat, Nets, and Spurs and establish the validity of a team
with a consistent roster and a team that doesn’t simply depend on the
performance of three superstars. The rest of the league should take notes.
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| Pacers center Roy Hibbert rejects Carmelo Anthony during the playoffs last season |
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