No. 5: Indiana Pacers
Jun 3, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Indiana Pacers small forward Paul George (24) looks to drive against Miami Heat small forward LeBron James (6) during the first quarter of game 7 of the 2013 NBA Eastern Conference Finals at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
The Pacers are getting a lot of love ever since they lost the Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals. I guess because they lost in 7 games instead of getting demolished. I also guess because Paul George is a break-out star and I’ll guess again because they play terrific (and I mean terrrrrific) defense.
I don’t have them any higher because I am still concerned about where the points will come from during the season. I mean, this is still the team that scored less than 80 points five times in the playoffs.
They still need to prove that they are more than a matchup problem for the Heat. Danny Granger coming back healthy will be a huge help. But this team still lacks serious depth, especially at point guard.
A threat to the Heat? Yes, because of the matchup. Though I doubt Miami will be surprised this time around.