Pacers lose to Kings, move to 5th in current draft order
By TYLER SMITH
ISL Editor
INDIANAPOLIS — In a game that could have big draft-night implications, the Pacers fell short in another close one, losing on Wednesday night to the Sacramento Kings, 110-109 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Both teams were missing multiple starters, including Domantas Sabonis who was injured recently and didn’t make the trip. The Pacers had a great opportunity to win this one late, but they instead improved their opportunity in the upcoming draft. With the loss, Indiana moved back into 5th in the current lottery, and they “failed” to win the season series over the Kings, which could also become a factor.
Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield both had big games against their former team. Haliburton had 13 points, 15 assists, and didn’t have a single turnover. Buddy Hield had 25 points, seven assists, and four steals, but also had the game’s biggest turnover in the closing seconds.
“It was my fault, I turned the ball over,” Hield said. “We just have to flush this one down the toilet. I’ll still take my chances any day with this team over theirs.” Hield reiterated that he still has great respect for the Kings and their players, but he’s enjoying his time in Indiana. “Rick (Carlisle) lets me play free. Over there, I was just a “stand in the corner” player. I’m able to do more here, and I’m at more peace with myself.”
His coach agrees. “I love Buddy Hield,” said Rick Carlisle. “Ever since he got here, he’s been enthusiastic. He’s been a willing learner. He’s doing better defensively all the time. Offensively, he’s not just a shooter. He can do a lot of things.”
With just nine games to go, the Pacers will continue looking for the perfect combination of improving their draft odds, while continuing to develop players for next season. Carlisle noted that “A large chunk of these players” will probably be part of the team next year. Even if that’s the case, several moves will be made this summer. It probably sounds like a broken record at this point, but obtaining the best draft pick possible will mean a lot for this franchise.
