Indiana Pacers: 5 bold predictions for 2017-18 NBA season

3. Domantas Sabonis will replace Thaddeus Young as the starting power forward

When Larry Bird acquired Thaddeus Young one year ago, the move was made with the notion that Young was a veteran player who could help Paul George get Indiana over the hump in the Eastern Conference.

Now that George is gone and the team’s focus has shifted more toward developing younger players, Young’s original role with the team has become obsolete.

Thaddeus Young is a player who brings a great deal to the table — not only is he skilled on both ends of the floor, but he exhibits a great attitude and work ethic as well.

In the long-term, the team is hoping that Domantas Sabonis will step up and become the power forward of the future. Thaddeus Young is keeping the spot warm for Sabonis, but “Domas” will be given an opportunity sooner or later.

A point will come in the season where it is apparent that the team is not going to make the playoffs, and a change in philosophy will follow — that philosophy will center around getting a good look at the more promising young players on the roster.

Even if Thaddeus Young plays well, Domantas Sabonis will be inserted into the starting lineup eventually; he’ll then have a chance to prove that he is destined to be an important part of the Pacers’ future.