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.
Jarace Walker ascends for Indiana Pacers
Nov 6, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Jarace Walker (5) celebrates a made basket in the second half against the Orlando Magic at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images|Trevor Ruszkowski/Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Pacers Triumph Over Magic: Lottery picks lead the way
The Indiana Pacers have managed to claw their way back to a .500 record with a victory over the Orlando Magic, and the bench was the hero of the night. The game showcased perhaps the best performance of Jarace Walker’s career. Walker was flawless from the field, hitting all seven of his shots, including three from beyond the arc. His defensive contributions were equally impressive, with two steals and a block, all while maintaining zero turnovers. This performance was crucial in a game where the Pacers needed every bit of his energy and skill to secure a win against a shorthanded Magic team.
Bennedict Mathurin’s Impact
Bennedict Mathurin also played a pivotal role, demonstrating his ability to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line. Mathurin’s aggressive play resulted in 14 free throw attempts, of which he converted 13, contributing significantly to his 20-point tally. His ability to penetrate the Magic’s defense and draw fouls was a key factor in the Pacers offensive success, especially when the Magic’s zone defense threatened to disrupt their rhythm.
The Pacers balanced scoring was evident, with five players scoring 17 or more points. That team effort was essential in overcoming a Magic team that, despite missing key players, managed to challenge the Pacers throughout the game. The Pacers strong start in the first quarter set the tone, but the Magic fought back, winning the last three quarters by a combined five points. However, the Pacers early lead and consistent contributions from the bench ensured they held on for the win.
Jarace Walker’s Breakout Game
Walker’s performance was a testament to his potential and the Pacers faith in his development. His shooting accuracy and defensive prowess were on full display, and his ability to keep the ball moving without turning it over was crucial. Walker’s growth as a player is evident, and his performance against the Magic could be a turning point.
The Pacers victory was not without its challenges. Despite their strong start, the Magic’s zone defense caused issues, and the Pacers had to rely on their bench to maintain their lead. T.J. McConnell’s energy and playmaking were vital, as was the defensive effort from Andrew Nembhard, who was tasked with guarding Franz Wagner. Nembhard’s defense in the second half was instrumental in limiting Wagner’s impact and helping the Pacers secure the win.
The Pacers’ ability to adapt and find ways to win, even when not playing their best, is a positive sign for the team moving forward. With contributions from both their starters and bench players, the Pacers are showing the depth and resilience needed to compete in the NBA.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pacers strategies and performances, 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’ defensive strategies
- T.J. McConnell’s role in the team’s success
- The impact of the Magic’s zone defense on the Pacers
- Upcoming challenges for the Pacers in their schedule
We’re about 10% of the way through the season, which means we’ve seen enough of the rookie class to make iron-clad judgments on them that will never change. First impression, last impression.
Kidding, of course; sample sizes are still small, and both we and the debutants themselves are learning a ton. Watching this class take their first baby-giraffe steps in the league has been a blast, so I’ve selected four rookies worth discussing.
1) Zach Edey, Memphis Grizzlies
Edey’s performance has been predictably up-and-down. On the one hand, he’s started to figure out how to defend without fouling. After infamously fouling out in just 15 minutes in his NBA debut, Edey hasn’t accrued more than three infractions in any of his last six games (although he did pick up three in just 15 minutes last night). Opponents are shooting just 55.6% against him at the rim, a better number than Anthony Davis or Rudy Gobert, and they take fewer attempts at the rim when he’s on the court. There’s a slight deterrence factor already at play.
Edey had a game where he went 11-for-12 from the field, but most of his damage has been done on putbacks and dump-offs. He has only generated 13 points on his 21 post-up possessions, a terrible mark, and his beloved hook shot has abandoned him.
Most peculiarly, a man I predicted might lead the league in screen assists has not been nearly as impactful a screener as I expected. Part of that is the Grizzlies leaning a bit away from the pick-and-roll-centric attack they’ve heavily featured in the past, and part is on some junior-high-school-level chemistry with Ja Morant (see here, where Edey whiffs on the screen and then can’t get to the lob quick enough). That said, he’s already mastered the rolling Gortat screen, a key tool for creating space for Morant. Now, he just needs more reps.
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Home and Away
Personnel Owen Phillips of The F5 examines whether a coach can translate their styles between different teams. For example, what trends and principles has Kenny Atkinson instilled in the Cavaliers that we first saw in his Nets tenure?
Analysis ESPN’s Kevin Pelton looks at some early trends, such as the impact Jeremy Sochan’s injury might have on Victor Wembanyama’s offense, the Thunder defense, and more.
Must Read Joseph Casciaro and Joe Wolfond of theScore have 10 observations on the young season, including a look at the Bulls’ blistering pace, KAT’s defensive issues, and much more.
Analysis Three takeaways from Pacers’ gritty win over Magic highlight team resilience and key player performances. (Sports Illustrated)
Signing Pacers continue free agency moves, focusing on bolstering their bench strength with strategic signings. (8 Points, 9 Seconds)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Zaccharie Risacher’s Big Night Brings Fantasy Basketball Questions
Atlanta Hawks forward Zaccharie Risacher (10) shoots over New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges (25) during the second half at State Farm Arena.|Photo by Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
In the world of fantasy basketball, player performances can fluctuate wildly, and Wednesday’s games were no exception. While Zach Edey had previously dazzled fans with a standout performance against the Nets, his recent outing was less than stellar. Facing tougher competition, Edey managed just eight points and seven rebounds in 15 minutes. This game served as a reminder that while Edey has potential, consistency is key, and fantasy managers should be cautious about overcommitting to him based on a single strong performance.
On the flip side, Zaccharie Risacher delivered a performance that turned heads and could have significant fantasy implications. Starting for the Atlanta Hawks, Risacher exploded for 33 points, seven rebounds, three assists, three steals, and two blocks. His shooting was on point, and he contributed across multiple categories, making him a hot commodity in fantasy leagues. With De’Andre Hunter still sidelined, Risacher’s role in the starting lineup seems secure for now, and his ability to fill the stat sheet makes him a valuable asset.
Risacher’s breakout game highlights the importance of monitoring player roles and opportunities. While his previous performances were inconsistent, this game showcased his potential when given the chance. Fantasy managers should consider adding Risacher, especially if he continues to see significant minutes and usage.
As always, staying updated on player performances and team dynamics is crucial for fantasy success. Keep an eye on how these players develop in the coming games, and adjust your fantasy strategies accordingly. For more insights and analysis, be sure to follow the latest episodes of the Locked On Fantasy Basketball podcast.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Pacers podcasts. Pacers take down Orlando Magic to get to .500 Jarace Walker and Bennedict Mathrin carried the Pacers past the Magic on Wednesday, and the Pacers are now .500 again. Those two, as well as Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, secured a crucial win.
Assessing the Pacers play through two weeks The Pacers are two weeks into the 2024-25 season. What has stood out in both a positive and negative way? Ethan Krieger joins to chat Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Jarace Walker, team struggles, and more.
How Pacers earned much-needed win vs Dallas Mavericks The Indiana Pacers played their most complete game of the season when they beat the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night. How did they get it done? And why were Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner so good?
