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Indiana Pacers: 5 Reasons They’ll Make The Playoffs

By Evan Massey

Jan 25, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) smiles from the bench against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. Indiana Pacers defeated the Orlando Magic 106-99. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 25, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) smiles from the bench against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. Indiana Pacers defeated the Orlando Magic 106-99. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 20, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) before the game against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) before the game against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /

1. The Return Of PG-13

The first and most obvious reason for the Indiana Pacers turning things around over the final 30 games of the season is that superstar Paul George is working towards getting back on the court. If that does indeed happen, the Pacers would finally be a complete basketball team. They haven’t seen what they’re capable of with a full roster, and getting George back would show what they’re truly capable of.

It has been made very obvious how important George is for the Pacers on both sides of the floor. Indiana is currently ranked 23rd in the league at just 96.2 points per game, and missing George has been a big part of that. Larry Bird built this team around George, and not having him in the lineup has messed up their offensive system.

Defensively, George is one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA. He has always played James Harden, Kevin Durant, and LeBron James hard throughout his career. Not having him defensively has hurt the Pacers in a big way as well.

Bringing George back to the court would be exactly what the Pacers need, and it looks like it could end up happening in mid-March at this point in time.

Next: 2. George Hill Beginning To Emerge

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