NBA Futures: Hammer the Over on the Pacers Win Total

Indiana Pacers Over 37.5 Wins -140 (DK)

This line is straight disrespect. The additions of Bruce Brown, Jarace Walker, and Obi Toppin, along with the development of Tyrese Haliburton, Bennidict Mathurin, Myles Turner, & Andrew Nehmhard should lead Indiana to a playoff spot. This team has size, speed, athleticism, and shooting. Obi Toppin should be a terrific fit alongside Tyrese Haliburton’s amazing court vision. Toppin’s ability as a lob threat and floor spacer is exactly what the Pacers need at the power forward position. Look for Bruce Brown and Jarace Walker to bring the defensive passion and energy that this team was lacking last season. Jarace Walker is arguably the defender in his draft class. Look for him to utilize his 7’2 wingspan on the perimeter and as a rim protector. Bruce Brown is the perfect connector for this team, as he excels at finishing around the rim and has exceptional court vision and basketball IQ. Indiana has the potential to play around with some fun lineups by playing five out with Myles Turner or Jarace Walker at the 5.

The Pacers have legitimate depth at every position, which they will use to their advantage by playing at a blistering pace. The Pacers also have players like Buddy Hield and TJ McConnell returning. Because of this depth, I’m not sure if young players Ben Sheppard, Isaiah Jackson, Aaron Nesmith, Jordan Nwora, and Jalen Smith will see as much playing time as they deserve, but that is a good problem to have. Isaiah Wong is another rookie that I believe has the chops to make it in the NBA.

The Pacers started last season 23-18 before Tyrese Haliburton missed time with a knee injury. They proceeded to go 1-9 in the next 10 games he missed. Andrew Nehmhard and Benedict Mathurin gained valuable experience running the offense last season. This experience, along with their offseason additions should be able to stop the bleeding if Haliburton misses any time.