NBA Panic Meter: 10 Teams To Monitor

Nov 9, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) goes past Charlotte Hornets forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (14) to the basket in the second half of the game at Staples Center. Lakers won 107-92. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

7 of 11

Oct 23, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Indiana Pacers center Roy Hibbert (55) in a time out during the second half of the game against the Charlotte Hornets at Time Warner Cable Arena. Pacers win 88-79. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /

Indiana Pacers (1-6)

We knew these Pacers would have problems scoring with Lance Stephenson gone and Paul George out, but we figured the defense would be able to keep Frank Vogel’s squad competitive. Indiana is only giving up 95.9 points per game, but they’re the third lowest scoring team in the league as well. With everyone recovering from injuries, the Pacers are one of the worst teams in the league right now.

Panic Meter: 13 (*Heart monitor flatlines*)

Pour one out for the homie, PG-13. For the 2014-15 season, the Pacers feel like a long shot to make the postseason, even if George Hill and David West return soon. Roy Hibbert stepping up as a leader has been nice to see, but the only silver lining here is the possibility of tanking into a top draft pick to help the Pacers when they return to full strength next season.

Next: The Lakers Are Doomed