Answering 2 big questions for Pacers’ stretch run
By CHRIS GOFF
ISL Editor/The Sports Xchange
As the NBA breaks for its All-Star game, about 30 games remain for each team. Before the final leg of the schedule, let’s look at the blue and gold’s top issues.
What will Indiana do as far as the Feb. 20 trade deadline?
The East-leading Pacers already picked up one player – Andrew Bynum – who could give their bench a completely different offensive dimension with his post play. But Indiana remains willing to pursue something else. With reserves Danny Granger and C.J. Watson struggling from outside, the missing piece to Indiana’s championship aspirations could be a long-range sniper who doesn’t demand a lot of touches. Kyle Lowry, enjoying a career year in Toronto, has been mentioned in conjunction with the Pacers, although he’s much more than a shooter. A team more desperate than Indiana for Lowry’s point guard skills is likely to make the winning offer. As for Granger, the question marks surrounding his future —his contract is up after the season —make it difficult to deal him now. Also, Granger’s salary is big enough to make matching contracts difficult, especially if the Pacers want value in return.
Who is the player to watch the rest of the way?
For all of Indiana’s star power, Lance Stephenson might be the decider. With the shooting guard’s ability to dial up the intensity, he is key in setting the tone. Consider – the Pacers are 34-7 when Stephenson scores in double figures, but 6-5 when he doesn’t. For the season he’s at 50.2 percent from the floor and converting at a spectacular rate when going to the basket. Within five feet of the rim he’s 177-for-261 so far (67.8 percent). One of the league’s most improved players, Stephenson is a huge reason the Pacers are one of two clubs with 40 wins. If his numbers drop off a bit, they’d be a different team.
