Caris LeVert can still be the closer the Pacers need
By TYLER SMITH (@TylerSmith_ISL)
ISL Editor
INDIANAPOLIS — There’s a lot we still don’t know about this Indiana Pacers team 20 games into the season. But one thing is certain: They’ve got to figure how to win more close games. Indy has already lost six games by four or fewer points, and that doesn’t include the OT loss to the Lakers. This stat from Jeremiah Johnson says it all:
I know many will disagree with this: But I still believe Caris LeVert can be “that guy” for Indiana down the stretch. He’s off to a rough so far this season, but he started slow last season as well. Look at his numbers from month-to-month a season ago:
March: 14.9 points, 4.1 assists, 4.1 reb.
April: 22.1 points, 4.8 assists, 4.1 reb
May: 26.0 points, 7.0 assists, 5.4 reb
He’s already hit a ton of clutch shots in his career, saying “I live for those moments” numerous times. Remember when he scored seven straight points to beat the Sixers late last year?
LeVert has only played in nine career playoff games, but has averaged 20.7 points, 5.9 assists, and 5.2 rebounds in those games.
I’m not saying the Pacers should force things and only play through LeVert late in games. LeVert himself has forced things a little too much early in the season. But if the Pacers are going to start winning the close games, he’s the one guy they could look to in most of those opportunities. Rookie Chris Duarte has already hit a lot of clutch shots himself. But there’s also a difference between hitting some clutch shots, and being a true closer on multiple possessions late. Pacers Head Coach Rick Carlisle needs to find the right combination of players and play-calls late in 4th quarters to get this thing turned around in the clutch moments.
Is LeVert the guy that makes Indy a title contender? Probably not. But the way the roster is currently constructed, he’s the best option late in games.
This stat may surprise you, but Caris LeVert has been a plus+6 on average while on the court this season, which leads all Pacer players by a pretty wide margin. The Pacers are also 14-7 the last few years when he scores 20+ points.
Be a little patient with LeVert, and I think it will pay off.
