Indiana Pacers: 3 players that need to step up against Miami Heat

(Photo by Ashley Landis-Pool/Getty Images)
(Photo by Ashley Landis-Pool/Getty Images)
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NBA playoffs, Indiana Pacers
NBA playoffs, Indiana Pacers (Photo by Ashley Landis – Pool/Getty Images)

Justin Holiday

The second unit has struggled for the Indiana Pacers in their first two playoff games against the Miami Heat. The reserves scored a total of 35 points in Game 1, but a mere 18 points in Game 2. In need of a boost off the bench, Justin Holiday, the team’s sixth man, needs to step up. Having shot just eight times in the past two games combined, the Pacers need to get Justin Holiday the ball.

In the two games thus far, Holiday averaged 8.5 points per game on 75.0 percent field goal shooting and an identical 75.0 percent from 3-point range. Although a small sample size, Holiday’s offense is unquestionably the most prolific part of his game, and the team needs him to be more aggressive.

In the first six games of the restart, Holiday found himself in an undeniable slump, averaging 4.3 points per game, his impact almost nonexistent. However, in the final two games, he bounced back, scoring 18 and 11 points respectfully on relatively efficient shooting percentages.

Holiday might not be a solidified double-digit scorer nightly, but his presence off the bench in recent play makes him a lethal option when they need a jolt. After an all-around poor bench showcase in Game 2, the Indiana Pacers need Justin Holiday to get aggressive on the offensive end.