Is PG-13 really set to return after the all-star break?
Out of all the teams who had deep playoff runs last year, the Indiana Pacers suffered one of their worst off-seasons in recent memory – possibly ever. From losing Lance Stephenson in free agency to Michael Jordan’s Charlotte Hornets and the horrific FIBA World Cup Paul George injury, where he suffered a compound fracture of both bones in his lower right leg; their team captain was soon ruled out to miss the entire season.
While the injury happened August 1st, George was quickly back in the gym shooting jumpers in and even a few slam dunks late October. Many fans, including ourselves expected the swing-man to take his time in returning to the court with missing an entire year, but the Indiana Pacers may be having second thoughts this year. The team has been enjoying a 3-day break from the court and has been in practice with PG-13 since Monday morning.
Team president, Larry Bird addressed media today saying “If he gets healthy and they say he can play and he wants to play, we’ll let him play.” While that may come off as desperation for a team last in the central division and 5 ½ spots behind the 8th seed, George properly needs seven months minimal to heal his tibia and fibula.
Coincidentally, that team frame happens to be next month in March, when Indiana has plans to insert him back into the starting lineup. With the exception of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Atlanta Hawks looking like the only elite teams in the East, the Pacers have a chance to sneak into an 8th seed (or even 7th) if their star returns.
In our opinion, the team is still missing that second back-court scorer they had last year with Lance to take pressure off Paul. Although they’ve seen double-digit point production from C.J. Watson, George Hill and C.J. Miles this season to complement their front-court tandem of Roy Hibbert and David West; we just don’t think their team is ready this year to make it past the second round if they see the previously two mentioned rivals.
An outcome like Derrick Rose is something we’re fearful of in George being rushed back, in which the Pacers should immediately keep him shut down and focus on the NBA Draft – to potentially lure a quality free agent.
RE: Larry Bird…disappointed the team hasn't come together better, but still wants to make the playoffs, won't hold PG back if he is ready
— Jeremiah Johnson (@JJFSINDIANA) February 3, 2015
OS REWIND: Paul George Changing Jersey to No. 13 in 2015
OS REWIND: Paul George Speaks Out On Injury & Next Season For Pacers