Pacers live to see another day
By TYLER SMITH (@TylerSmith_ISL)
ISL Editor
INDIANAPOLIS — In game number 73, the Indiana Pacers put on a show in front of their home fans, and they now live to see another day. It was a dominating effort from start to finish, as the Pacers never trailed. They defeated the Charlotte Hornets by a final score of 144-117.
For a team that went 13-23 at home in the regular season, it was refreshing to see this effort, even with four key players out. They’ve been fighting for playoff position the last several weeks, but there’s nothing quite like a “win or go home” game to see what you’re made of. Mission accomplished, and now the Pacers will play on Thursday night for a chance to make the big-boy playoffs as the 8-seed.
“I liked the energy we had, especially on the defensive end,” said Head Coach Nate Bjorkgren. “Our team defense was well connected. Overall, the way the guys competed tonight- it was good to be a part of.”
In a season full of injuries and other factors, the Pacers were dealt another huge blow before this game with the 10-14 day loss of Caris LeVert.
“Caris was crushed,” said Bjorkgren. “He wants to be out there so bad with us. But we’ve taken a lot of hits this year, and a lot of challenges. We talked about taking the hits and continue to keep going.”
Doug McDermott almost out-scored the Hornets in the 1st quarter by himself. He had 16 in the opening frame, and finished with 21. Oshae Brissett continues to shock the world, and he led the Pacers with 23 points on 10-of-14 shooting… this coming right after his monster game on Sunday (31 points, 10 rebounds). Even if the Pacers lose on Thursday, the development of Brissett is a big one for this franchise moving forward.
Malcolm Brogdon returned to the lineup and looked great, contributing 16 points and eight assists. Because of the blow-out, the Pacers were able to limit Brogdon to just 21 minutes. Teammate Domantas Sabonis put together a 14 point, 21 rebound, nine assist evening: big time numbers that have become the norm for Domas.
“Domas is an All-Star,” said Brogdon. “He’s going to give you a triple-double most nights and make the team better. He makes the right plays and he’s unselfish.”
For the game, the Pacers made 16 3-point shots, dished out 35 assists, and out-rebounded Charlotte 54-36. At least for one night, they played like a team that doesn’t want to go home just yet.
“We know what’s ahead of us,” said Doug McDermott. “We’re excited for the opportunity. And a night like tonight gives us some confidence moving forward.”
What’s at stake Thursday night for the Pacers? With a win, they will clinch the No. 8-seed and make the playoffs. With a loss, their season will end- but they will keep a higher draft pick (Projected #13). With this unpredictable team, we’ll just have to wait and see what Thursday may bring.
