When discussing offseason moves, you hear the terms “overrated” and “underrated” thrown around rather fervently. While this terms can be overdone for the most part, what about just being rated? As in, accurately thought of by most persons who are critical of such moves. This topic was discussed in musical terms by Chuck Klosterman, learn about just being “rated” here.
I cannot think of a better way to describe the Pacers during this offseason. They lost Jarrett Jack, but replaced him with Dahntay Jones. They bought out Jamaal Tinsley, and replaced him with Earl Watson. They drafted Tyler Hansbrough, who really is as “rated” as a player as anyone can get. It’s a fairly common opinion he will be a solid, 10 year NBA player who will never be great, but will always be good.

Even the Pacers star players are somewhat average, at least in personality. Danny Granger, with constant suffering knee injuries, did little in the way of putting himself in the news this summer. Though he was invited to the Team USA tryouts, he opted to sit and watch to rest his knees. Mike Dunleavy, also someone familiar to injury, has returned to the hardwood in a non-contact drills, shooting and exercising his legs.

What becomes of the future for the Pacers? Shockingly, mediocrity doesn’t seem out of the question. If Granger and Dunleavy can came back and improve or maintain their high level of play, the Pacers could be a middle of the pack team, which typically warrants you the 6,7, or 8 slot in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Roy Hibbert, TJ Ford, and Brandon Rush must deliver vastly improved to career seasons in order for the Pacers to be legitimate threats in the East. Even still, to put them in the conversation with Boston, Orlando, or Cleveland is just out of the question. They are more in the Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Miami circles than that of the elite. Look for the Pacers to make the playoffs and get bounced in the first round. I would even go as far as to say they could end up 41-41, and you can’t be any more average than that.

Share on Facebook