Live Thread: Pacers vs Cavs

The Indiana Pacers are also going through an identity crisis. All off-season, Larry Legend and the rest of the Indiana brass spoke of unleashing Paul George at the power forward spot. After watching the 2015 Finals, Bird knew which way the wind was blowing. Early in the season, former Cav swingman, C.J. Miles provided the tough wing and post defense in the Pacer small-ball lineup. Like Shane Battier and LeBron, George was only a power forward in name as Miles frequently guarded much bigger PFs, freeing George to stay on the wing. PG-13’s great return from injury and Ian Mahinmi’s improvement provided Indiana a functional small-ball unit that switched seamlessly on the perimeter. But, it had its consequences. Though the Pacers did a great job defending the three ball, they got hammered on the boards and bled points down low.

My preseason pick for “most influential rookie on a decent team”, Myles Turner missed much of the first half of the season with a fractured left thumb. His play after his return has met my expectations. Combined with a C.J. Miles nagging calf strain, Turner’s play has necessitated a switch of the starting lineup. Turner’s defensive presence and silky jumper have been very solid of a rookie, but it has drastically changed the Pacers’ style of play. Their big lineup has been solid in the paint and efficient on the offensive end, but their perimeter switch-ability has taken a hit. During their recent cold streak, opposing teams are lighting them up from behind the arc.

Fortunately for Frank Vogel, the non-galvanized Cleveland Cavaliers also play two traditional bigs. If Myles Turner can play Kevin Love to a draw, look for the Cavaliers’ sadness to continue.

The Cavs should be at full strength for this one unless you count whatever is ailing Mo Williams as a legitimate injury. Sound off.

Update: Mozzy will get the start