Indiana Pacers' Dark Horse Candidate?

The East hasn't seen much competition this season. The Cavs and Celtics sit in the top two seeds. The New York Knicks follow closely, powered by Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson. They might make it to the Eastern Conference because their forwards are deep and skilled. One team we often overlook is the Indiana Pacers. They are coming off a strong run in the Eastern Conference last year. Pascal Siakam has had one of his best seasons and earned an All-Star selection. Tyrese Haliburton struggled early but helped his team reach the fourth seed. Indiana has a talented team. Aaron Nesmith, Andrew Nembhard, and Myles Turner make a strong core.

Longest-tenured player on the Pacers: Myles Turner for nine seasons. From the Paul George era to now, this is their best time. They came off an Eastern Conference appearance. People know Turner for his strong defense. He protects the rim with skill and guards the perimeter with precision. Myles's problem has been the rebounding department, as he isn't known for it. Which has been the problem for the team, as they are one of the weakest teams on the boards. One of the best aspects of Myles Turner has been his offense. He can open up the floor by shooting 3s and be able to play off-ball by setting screens. Along with being able to create his own shot by either driving to the basket or creating his threes. Turner is a key player for the Pacers. The team depends on him a lot since they struggle at center. Myles was a key player in the last post-season, like Andrew Nembhard.

Andrew Nembhard was one of the biggest highlights of the postseason last year. He brought the right energy, which helped them move on past the Bucks and the New York Knicks. The legendary three-point shot in Game Three against the Knicks helped fuel their run. Andrew excels at creating his shots and finishes strong at the basket. He is also one of the best defensive players on a team not known for strong defense. He’s known for strong perimeter defense. Andrew also creates more possessions for the team, leading to fast-break points. Andrew is an elite offensive player. He can play off the ball and create his own shots. His skills have translated well in the playoffs. Along with his backcourt partner, Tyrese Haliburton.

The man who controls the offense, Tyrese Haliburton, is one of the best passers in the league today. He is incredible at controlling the pace and finding players in their spots. Hali knows how to draw in defenders, then kick it to the open player. Tyrese uses his body to make a pass. He jumps and shifts, creating space for the open offensive player. He is great off the pick and roll, which opens opportunities for other teammates. Tyrese Haliburton is one of basketball's brightest minds. He lifts his teammates' games with his passing and scoring skills.

On the scoring end, Tyrese has shown competence. It is complementary to his scoring ability. Hali excels at scoring off the dribble. He uses screens well, leading to nice three-pointers or easy baskets. Tyrese has been the perfect co-star with Siakam. He took on some scoring duties, which are important for a guard. As they draw more attention, it opens the floor for others. Haliburton is one of the best floor generals in the league, and the ability to make points adds to that. Aaron Nesmith's great wingspan helps Tyrese and Hali. It draws attention, making playmaking easier.

Aaron Nesmith is one of the most underrated role players in the league today. He is a great partner to Pascal Siakam in the wing position, as he can guard the opposing player using his strength and size. Aaron is good at playing off his two-star players as he cuts to the basket and can hit spot-up threes. Nesmith is the ideal role player who can step up when the game gets tough. He opens the floor for the other two to operate while defenders still have to worry about Nesmith hitting his shots. He is one of the bright spots of the Indiana Pacers' depth.

The Indiana Pacers are performing impressively in the playoffs, winning two games against the Milwaukee Bucks. The starting five have been shining in their roles, and several role players have been significant spark plugs. Benedict Mathurin, making his playoff debut, has scored off the bench. TJ McConnell plays strong defense and offers playmaking. Obi Toppin contributes by making spot-up threes, stretching the floor, and finishing strong at the rim. Indiana is a formidable team due to their pacing and scoring ability. They are a solid 8-man-deep team, which should concern the Cavs as they face their first real challenge. The Pacers are one of the most underrated teams this postseason!

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