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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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Feb 4, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers guard George Hill (3) brings the ball up court against the Detroit Pistons at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats Detroit 114-109. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 4, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers guard George Hill (3) brings the ball up court against the Detroit Pistons at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats Detroit 114-109. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

2. George Hill Beginning To Emerge

Perhaps the most underrated player in the Indiana Pacers’ roster is point guard George Hill. He has received a lot of hate from the fans for his play over the last couple of seasons, but he took that criticism to heart this past offseason and is a much improved player this season. So far this season, Hill has been dealing with injury issues but is finally healthy and has had his minute limit taken away.

Over the past couple of years, he has received criticism for not being aggressive and simply not being a legitimate point guard.

He has improved almost all of the areas that he needed to from last season, and is a much better leader and consistent presence on the court. Hill has averaged 13.5 points, 3.7 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game in limited minutes. Those numbers may not look improved, but he has been shooting 44.5 percent from the field and 40.6 percent from behind the three-point arc.

If the Pacers are going to make a run at the playoffs, they need Hill to stay healthy. He is a huge difference maker for them, and they have played much better with him on the court than not this season.

Next: 3. Rodney Stuckey's Improved Bench Play

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