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.
It’s Thomas Bryant’s world, and the Pacers are living in it
Jan 8, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers center Thomas Bryant (3) shoots the ball while Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Trevor Ruszkowski/Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Pacers Dominate Bulls with Impressive Paint Performance
The Indiana Pacers put on a clinic against the Chicago Bulls, showcasing their offensive prowess and depth in a convincing victory. The game was a testament to the Pacers ability to exploit weaknesses and adapt to unexpected changes in the lineup.
From the opening tip, it was clear that the Pacers had a game plan: attack the paint relentlessly. This strategy paid off in spades as the team racked up an impressive 76 points in the paint, tying their season high. The Bulls simply had no answer for the Pacers interior dominance, which opened up opportunities all over the court.
What made this performance even more remarkable was the absence of Myles Turner due to a non-COVID illness. Stepping up in his place, Thomas Bryant delivered a standout performance in his first start for the Pacers. Bryant’s ability to seamlessly integrate into the starting lineup and make quick, decisive plays was crucial to maintaining the team’s offensive flow.
Bryant’s Breakout Game
Bryant’s stat line was impressive: 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 steals. But it was his decision-making and energy that truly stood out. He kept the offense fluid, making smart passes and setting effective screens. His performance was a perfect example of how depth can make a difference when a key player is sidelined.
The Pacers bench also played a significant role in the victory. Enrique Freeman, called up from the G League, provided solid minutes as the third big man. His ability to step in and contribute immediately speaks volumes about who he is.
The team’s success wasn’t just about individual performances, though. The Pacers dominated the possession battle, forcing 18 turnovers while committing only 8 of their own. They also outrebounded the Bulls, creating extra opportunities that proved decisive in the game’s outcome.
This win pushes the Pacers to two games over .500, a significant milestone for a team that has faced its share of challenges this season. It’s a testament to their resilience and the effectiveness of their offensive system.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pacers dominant performance against the Bulls, tune into the Locked On Pacers podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pacers Podcast:
• Pascal Siakam’s impressive 26-point performance
• Tyrese Haliburton’s gutsy play through injury
• The Pacers upcoming schedule and playoff positioning
The Cavs, the Thunder, and the joy of a job well done
Jan 8, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Caris LeVert (3) during the first half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. | Ken Blaze/Imagn Images
The ESPN broadcast had its usual coach interview at the start of the fourth quarter, but the dialogue was far from typical. Instead of anodyne coach-speak, a smiling Kenny Atkinson marveled at the basketball being played before him.
“What a great basketball game,” the Cavaliers coach gushed. “I wish I could just sit back and watch it.”
As someone who did precisely that, I can say that Atkinson sure wasn’t wrong.
Cleveland/OKC had something for everyone. There were loud dunks, post moves, occasional but far from overwhelming flurries of three-pointers, high-level shotmaking, ping-pong ball movement, and great all-around defense (despite what the final score might indicate).
The major players exerted maximum effort on both sides and played more than their usual share of minutes. Coaches unveiled tactical adjustments at a lightning pace, counters to counters at a rate you usually only see in the playoffs. There was even a lot of zone defense (which, if you read Basketball Poetry, you would’ve been prepared for!). The refs were largely inobtrusive and inconsequential.
Frankly, if you didn’t like this game, there’s not much hope for you.
Something that struck me halfway through an exquisite third quarter: everyone on the court was simply doing their job. I don’t love how that sentence reads on paper; it makes it sound like a dull affair, people clocking in and clocking out before going to a chain bar with flashing neon signs instead of character for their preferred domestic light pilsner of choice.
That couldn’t be further from the truth. What is an NBA player’s job if not to entertain?
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
Analysis A look at the state of zone defense in the NBA. Who’s running it, and who isn’t? (Basketball Poetry)
Must Read NBA greats think this D-II coach is a basketball genius. So why don’t you know who Jim Crutchfield is? (The Athletic)
Analysis Is this the worst rookie class in modern NBA history? Jared Dubin examines box-score production to compare this year’s rookies to the past. (Last Night in Basketball)
Analysis Rick Carlisle’s phrase “unsung hero” highlights the emergence of a key player within the team, emphasizing the importance of recognizing contributions beyond the spotlight. The unsung hero reveals strategic insights. (8 Points, 9 Seconds)
Roster The Indiana Pacers made a massive roster move ahead of their matchup against the Chicago Bulls, indicating strategic adjustments aimed at enhancing team performance. (Sports Illustrated)
Feel Good Rick Carlisle responds with empathy and support to the devastating fires in Southern California, showcasing the human side of sports and the community impact. (Sports Illustrated)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire: Must-Add Players and Surprising Drops
Jan 7, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. (11) is defended by Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins (22) during the first quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images | John Hefti/John Hefti-Imagn Images
As we approach the NBA trade deadline, it’s crucial to stay on top of the fantasy basketball waiver wire. Let’s dive into the most added and dropped players over the last 48 hours, and discuss some must-roster options for your fantasy teams.
Jaime Jaquez Jr. tops the list of most added players on Basketball Monster. While he’s had two solid games recently, I’m cautious about his long-term value, especially if Jimmy Butler is traded. Remember, any incoming player in a Butler trade could easily take over his role and minutes.
Ryan Dunn is another popular add, likely due to the Suns’ five-game week. However, he’s not a long-term hold for 12-team leagues. Use him for the extra games this week, but be prepared to move on quickly.
Kelly Oubre Jr. is seeing increased opportunities with Paul George out, making him a solid short-term add. Naji Marshall has also been playing well and is worth considering, despite a recent poor shooting night.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Pacers podcasts. How the Pacers rolled the Bulls Indiana dominated Chicago on Wednesday night, and Thomas Bryant stood out. How an unlikely hero carried the Pacers, who got the rim whenever they wanted in a division win.
Pacers getting more from Mathurin, Bryant The Pacers have been seeing great play from Bennedict Mathurin recently. What changed in his game to improve? And what is Thomas Bryant doing so well?
Indiana escapes Brooklyn after an ugly one The Indiana Pacers took down the Brooklyn Nets despite a rough game. The blue and gold stunk on the glass and didn’t play their way, but they found enough solutions to escape with a victory.
