Can Philly’s Underdogs Shock the Pacers in a Stunning Upset?
The Pacers went to the NBA Finals last year, and this year they will be lucky to make the Play-In Tournament. Most of that is due to injury, but it is also possible that everything just aligned for them last year in ways most didn’t expect. This season, the team is just 6-18, but three of their wins have come in their past five games. They have three guys in their starting lineup who are legitimate players – Andrew Nembhard, Benedict Mathurin, and Pascal Siakam. That trio might be able to carry their group in some games, but there will be a lot where they need role players to make a difference. Being on the road is a challenge in the NBA for a lot of bench guys. Sure, there are some that get hot, and there are some that thrive in that environment, but basketball is a habit sport, and the best of the best are much better at playing on the road than a guy who only gets 18 minutes a game. The Pacers are without two of their starters, and another few guys who will be out tonight are ones who could provide some impact minutes. TJ McConnell is the only guy on the bench who I think is legitimate enough to get real minutes.



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