Indiana took a significant risk when they decided to embark on a rebuilding journey, but now it has led them to a promising position – the second round of the playoffs against the Knicks, marking their first appearance in the Eastern Conference semifinals in a decade. However, the Pacers are not satisfied with just making it this far.
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle emphasized the importance of setting high aspirations, likening it to aiming for the Final Four in college basketball. He stressed that the team needs to think beyond simply reaching the playoffs and aim for bigger accomplishments. This mindset shift required letting go of any illusions they had.
Although “rebuild” is often seen as a negative term in the NBA, Pacers’ president Kevin Pritchard and general manager Chad Buchanan recognized that it was necessary for the team’s growth. They made significant moves, such as trading Domantas Sabonis for Tyrese Haliburton and sending Malcom Brogdon to Boston for Aaron Nesmith and draft picks.
By adding complementary pieces to existing players like Myles Turner and TJ McConnell, the Pacers transitioned from rebuilding to building much faster than anticipated. Carlisle praised the front office’s acquisitions, highlighting the impact of players like Haliburton and the importance of finding the right personnel.
Haliburton’s emergence as a leader prompted the Pacers to shift their focus from tanking to assembling a competitive roster around him. This led to the acquisitions of players like Obi Toppin, Andrew Nembhard, and Pascal Siakam, with the goal of not just making the playoffs, but contending for a championship.
Now, as they face the Knicks in the playoffs, the Pacers acknowledge the journey they’ve undertaken and the hard work that lies ahead. Despite their current success, they remain focused on the ultimate goal of achieving sustained success in the league.
