Indiana Pacers: Who Will Replace Roy Hibbert?

For the last few seasons, there was no question regarding who’d be the starting center for the Indiana Pacers on opening night.

Even after abysmal performances in the 2014 playoffs, the starting job was Roy Hibbert‘s entering last season. He was the team’s defensive anchor and elite rim protector.

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But after falling out of grace with team president Larry Bird, Hibbert was dealt this offseason to the Los Angeles Lakers for a second-round pick and cap space.

The departure of Hibbert left a major hole in the interior of the lineup. Luckily for the Pacers, the team has a few options who will have the opportunity to step up this season and help fill the void left behind by the former center.

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Entering the upcoming season, the Pacers have three players who are likely to split time at the center position: free-agent signing Jordan Hill, lottery pick Myles Turner, and incumbent reserve Ian Mahinmi. Of the three, Hill is the only player with extensive starting experience, and is rumored to be the likely starter.

But is Hill the correct choice?

Hill is an excellent rebounder, and a positive contributor on the offensive end. He’s always been a threat around the rim, but has expanded his offensive skill-set over the past few seasons to include more perimeter shots.

With the Pacers transitioning to a small-ball lineup, the team is looking to utilize post players like Hill who can stretch the floor with their shooting and allow the “Slash Brothers” — Paul George and Monta Ellis — to attack the rim.

However, the Pacers also need to replace Hibbert’s rim-protection and defense, and Hill has never been known for his defensive abilities. As the team transitions to a smaller lineup this season featuring more perimeter-oriented players, the team will need a strong interior presence to help anchor the defense.

Unfortunately, Hill is not a defensive anchor — meaning he is not the best option.

So if Hill isn’t the answer, who is?

With his performances in the Orlando Summer League, rookie Turner is an exciting option and favorite among fans for the starting job. But is he ready to take on such a large role?

Like Hill, Turner is a talented offensive player. He has a low post turnaround jumper that is almost impossible to guard, as well as a consistent three-point shot. With his skill set and ability to run the floor in transition, Turner is a perfect fit as a stretch center in the Pacers’ new, uptempo offensive scheme.

Defensively, Turner is an upgrade over Hill. He uses his 7’4″ wingspan to alter shots and showcased excellent blocking instincts in summer league play. With time, he can become one of the elite rim-protectors in the league.

But therein lies the problem: the Pacers want to be competitive now, and have the roster to do so. Why rely on the development of a rookie when there are other experienced options on the roster?

And that leaves the last remaining option: Mahinmi.

For years, Mahinmi has lived in the shadows of great post players in San Antonio, Dallas and Indiana. But at the end of last season Mahinmi’s play finally earned him a larger role for the Pacers. As a matter of fact, at one point he was playing more than Hibbert.

Although Mahinmi may not be the most popular choice, he is the right choice. Not only is he the most familiar with the team and head coach Frank Vogel’s philosophies, but he is also the best fit for the projected lineup.

George, Hill and Monta Ellis are locks to be starters on opening night, and C.J. Miles is likely to join them at small forward. Between the four of them, the Pacers will have all the offense they need. They will also be undersized, and lack interior defense and rebounding.

Mahinmi won’t demand touches on offense, giving the other four more shots to spread around. Furthermore, Mahinmi’s strengths — rebounding and blocking — would improve the two weakest spots of the lineup.

Mahinmi may not be able to stretch the floor, but his other offensive traits — such as his ability to run in transition, his athleticism and finishing ability at the rim — make up for it and fit the new Pacer mindset.

When the season tips off, Mahinmi should be in the starting lineup. Out of all the choices, he provides the Pacers with the best chance to win and be competitive in a weak Eastern Conference.

Mahinmi may not be the most popular or glamourous choice, and he may lack the potential or starting experience that the alternatives may have, but make no mistake about it — Mahinmi is the right choice.

Next: Will the Pacers Find Success in Smaller Lineup?

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