Indiana Pacers: Schedule Indicates Difficult Stretches

Larry Bird didn’t take presidential reigns of the Indiana Pacers to settle for mediocrity.  In a handful of years as the leader, it’s been nothing more.

In 2013-14, the franchise had all the proper tools to claim a top seed, protect their city, and be front-runners for a title.  For the first time in over a decade, the Pacers could say that and not be telling a lie.

Shedding a world of talent from the roster — either by injury or Michael Jordan‘s wallet — Indiana is now awake.  Their dream looks to be over, only for the time being.  Just for one season, unless vital trades are made between now and October.

The 2014-15 NBA Schedule released in mid-August, outlining exactly when each team would travel, and when they’ll play in front of their home crowd.

For the Pacers, their schedule couldn’t be more grueling, and disappointing if you’re looking for them to hit unrealistic winning streaks.  They have a few rigid stretches that raises eyebrows, and puts nothing but doubt into your mind.

Here’s the five most strenuous parts of the schedule Frank Vogel will have to coach through, en route to getting this franchise to their fifth straight playoff appearance.

**Note:  The opponent’s projected Win/Loss totals are derived from ESPN’s 2014-15 East & West Forecasts, in which they estimated a record for all 30 teams.  It’s not our personal win projections**