Tony East here, the host of the daily Locked On Pacers podcast, with your daily Locked On Pacers newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Pacers and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Pacers must add a center after Isaiah Jackson injury
Mar 27, 2023; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Isaiah Jackson (22) and Dallas Mavericks center JaVale McGee (00) fight for a rebound in the second quarter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports|Trevor Ruszkowski/Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Pacers Face Unprecedented Challenges with Center Injuries
The Indiana Pacers are dealing with a significant setback as they navigate the early NBA season. The team has been hit hard by injuries, particularly in the center position, with Isaiah Jackson suffering a torn Achilles last Friday in New Orleans. This follows closely on the heels of James Wiseman’s injury, leaving the Pacers in a precarious situation. Two devastating injuries in quick succession are brutal.
The Impact of Injuries on Team Dynamics
The loss of Jackson and Wiseman has forced the Pacers to consider additions. Historically, the team has relied on having multiple centers to maintain depth and flexibility. Now, with both players sidelined, the Pacers are left scrambling for solutions. The absence of depth not only affects the team’s rebounding capabilities but also their ability to defend against formidable opponents like Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Myles Turner, the team’s primary center, has already faced an injury this season. While he’s a crucial part of the Pacers lineup, he’s not accustomed to playing extended minutes for a full season. This situation underscores the urgent need for the team to find additional support in the center position. The Pacers current roster lacks the size required to compete, making it imperative to explore potential signings or trades.
Exploring Potential Solutions
Given the constraints of the early season, the Pacers options are limited. The team has a roster spot available, which could be used to sign a veteran player. However, the challenge lies in finding someone who can seamlessly integrate into the team’s style of play. Athleticism and toughness are key traits the Pacers should be seeking in a potential addition as they aim to fill the void left by Jackson and Wiseman.
Several names have been floated as potential candidates, including JaVale McGee and Frank Kaminsky. While McGee brings experience and a previous connection with head coach Rick Carlisle, Kaminsky offers shooting ability, albeit with less athleticism. Other options like Moses Brown and Omer Yurtseven present intriguing possibilities due to their rebounding prowess and size.
The Pacers front office faces a difficult decision as they weigh these options. The team’s current predicament highlights the importance of having a well-rounded roster capable of withstanding the rigors of an NBA season. As the Pacers continue to explore their options, fans are left hoping for a timely solution that can help the team regain its footing.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pacers current challenges and potential solutions, tune into the Locked On Pacers podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pacers Podcast:
- Analysis of the Pacers’ recent performance and areas for improvement
- Discussion on the impact of injuries on team strategy and dynamics
- Potential trade and free agent targets to bolster the roster
- Insights into upcoming matchups and key players to watch
Reflections from Vince Carter’s jersey retirement night
The Toronto Raptors retired Vince Carter’s jersey on Saturday night. The ceremony came during half time of the Raptors-Kings game, where an emotional Carter and his family watched a banner with his number and the iconic photo of him mid-between-the-legs-dunk rise up to the rafters in the arena it all started in for him. That moment marked a culmination. Of a career, of a person’s trepidatious relationship with a city and its fan base, of a distinct era of NBA basketball and identity of a franchise, but also of a month’s worth of moments for Carter.
The Raptors made the announcement at a community basketball court dedication to Carter in late September, where franchise president Masai Ujiri thanked Carter for all he did to inspire the game in Canada and put the Raptors franchise on the map. “Time heals things,” Ujiri told the crowd before he confirmed Carter would be the first player in team history to have their number retired. Carter was overcome and fought back tears as he thanked the crowd, Ujiri and the city.
The tributes continued. Carter had an airplane dedicated to him by one of the country’s major airlines, Air Canada, in a nod to his nickname of the same. A mural was unveiled in downtown Toronto, and it was announced Carter would join as a broadcaster to provide coverage for select games this season — also the Raptors 30th anniversary season.
Given the host of accolades and recognition, I found it telling when Carter sat down in front of assembled media prior to Saturday night’s game for a pre-ceremony presser, and said he wasn’t sure what to expect of the night but encouraged everyone to “live in the moment”. I asked him, in light of every tribute and celebration thus far, how he was doing that or if his perception of the moment changed. He laughed. “I’m fighting,” he admitted.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Injury Isaiah Jackson’s Achilles tear ends his season, affecting the Pacers’ frontcourt depth significantly. (Sports Illustrated)
Personnel Indiana is actively seeking to upgrade their frontcourt following multiple season-ending injuries. (Sports Illustrated)
Feel Good Former Pacers guard announces retirement after a commendable 14-year NBA career. (Sports Illustrated)
Controversy A former Pacers star offers harsh criticism of Tyrese Haliburton, sparking debate among fans and analysts. (Sports Illustrated)
Paul George’s Return Is A Huge Fantasy Basketball Boost
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at State Farm Arena.|Photo by Brett Davis-Imagn Images
As we wrap up another thrilling week in the NBA, it’s time to delve into the latest injury updates and player performances that could impact your fantasy basketball strategy. With only three games on Sunday, the anticipation builds for an action-packed 15-game day. Let’s explore the key developments and what they mean for your fantasy lineup.
Injury Updates: Key Players to Watch
Zach LaVine’s shoulder issues continue to be a concern, leaving his status questionable. This ongoing problem could affect his availability, so keep an eye on updates. Meanwhile, Rudy Gobert’s ankle sprain opens opportunities for Naz Reid and Luka Garza, especially in deeper leagues. With Aaron Nesmith out and Andrew Nembhard questionable, Ben Mathurin and Jarace Walker are set to see increased roles, potentially stepping into starting positions or gaining extra minutes.
Lauri Markkanen’s return from back spasms is imminent, which is great news for fantasy managers. In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid’s absence isn’t surprising, but Paul George’s expected return is a significant development. Despite being listed as questionable, reports suggest George is ready to play, albeit with a possible minutes restriction. This isn’t a long-term injury, so expect him to be back in full swing soon.
Player Performances: Who’s Stepping Up?
The Detroit Pistons secured a road win against the Brooklyn Nets, showcasing improved play compared to last season. Jalen Duren stood out with a solid performance, contributing 13 points, 17 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. His increased minutes were partly due to Isaiah Stewart fouling out, but it’s a positive sign for Duren’s fantasy value.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Pacers podcasts.
Pacers lose Isaiah Jackson to Achilles tear, now what Isaiah Jackson’s season may be over with a torn Achilles. James Wiseman is down for a while, too. The Pacers need a center, and Eddie Garrison joins to break down the situation before talking about the Pacers struggles this season.
The Pacers stars need to be better after loss to Pelicans The Pacers fell in New Orleans, keeping the group below .500. The Pelicans stars massively outplayed the Pacers stars, and that has been too much of a theme this year. Plus, Isaiah Jackson and Aaron Nesmith got hurt.
The Pacers early-season strategy changes The Indiana Pacers are taking fewer three-point shots this season. Why? Have they traded those shots for more efficient looks? Plus, a shallow dive into lineups and a preview of Pacers vs New Orleans Pelicans.
