The Indiana Pacers are grappling with the challenges of Myles Turner’s departure. Following a notable 10-year stint, Turner left the Pacers to sign with the Milwaukee Bucks. His four-year contract, worth $108.8 million, pairs him with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, leaving a significant gap in the Pacers’ frontcourt.
Impact of Myles Turner’s Departure
Turner’s exit has been felt in various facets of the game. The Pacers currently hold a 2-14 record, highlighting a major decline in their defense, particularly in the paint. After his departure, they are facing severe issues in preventing opposing teams from scoring near the basket.
Defensive Struggles
The Pacers recently celebrated a victory over the Charlotte Hornets but have struggled to establish a solid paint defense. Despite recent efforts from players such as Jay Huff and Isaiah Jackson, the team’s interior defense has suffered considerable setbacks.
- Jay Huff and Isaiah Jackson tried to fill Turner’s shoes.
- Huff recorded 12 blocked shots in the last two games.
- Jackson contributes offensively but has limited shot attempts.
As of now, the Pacers’ defensive rating stands at -12.8, ranking them 29th in the league. This poor rating can primarily be attributed to their inability to defend shots near the rim.
Statistics and Performance
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Field Goal Percentage Allowed (within 5 feet) | 68.1% |
| Current Defensive Rating | 118.9 |
| True Shooting Percentage (Huff) | 50.0% |
| Three-Point Percentage (Huff) | 27.7% |
| Points per Game (Jackson) | 7.9 |
| Rebounds per Game (Jackson) | 6.1 |
Myles Turner greatly affected the Pacers’ defensive capabilities. During his tenure, opponents made just 61.2% of shots within five feet of the basket, a stark contrast to the current figures. The Pacers are now faced with the daunting task of rebuilding their defense without him.
Looking Ahead
While the transition post-Turner has been rocky, there remains hope within the Pacers’ organization. Improving their backline defense will be crucial for future success. The management believed that players like Huff and Jackson might thrive when given more responsibility. However, their current performance raises concerns about their long-term impact on team success.
Overall, the Pacers will need to address their defensive weaknesses to maintain competitiveness in the NBA. As they navigate life after Turner, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team adapts.
