As the Indiana Pacers gear up for the upcoming season, the anticipation surrounding the team’s performance is rife with uncertainty. Following the injury to star player Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles and the departure of Myles Turner, many analysts are predicting a significant decline in the Pacers’ success. Despite these challenges, some experts remain optimistic about Indiana’s potential to surprise in the 2025-26 NBA season.
Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report stands out among the optimistic voices, suggesting that the Pacers could still manage a winning season, forecasting at least a .500 record with a minimum of 41 wins. He pointed out that the odds makers have set the over-under at 36.5 wins, highlighting a widespread expectation of a down year. However, Bailey believes that the team possesses the necessary talent and competitive spirit to defy these low expectations. He noted players like Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, Bennedict Mathurin, and Pascal Siakam, advocating for their ability to step up given the absence of Haliburton.
In contrast, other analysts like Grant Hughes and Bailey Bassett expressed a more conservative outlook, with both predicting a record of 34-48 for the Pacers, which would likely lead to missing the playoffs. Their forecasts are grounded in the team’s current struggles, including adjustments to the roster and dealing with additional injuries, notably T.J. McConnell’s sidelining due to a hamstring issue.
Historically, the Pacers have demonstrated resilience, finishing last season with a strong 50-32 record despite a rocky start. However, rebuilding their depth, a crucial factor that aided their playoff run, will pose a significant hurdle this season. The team’s roster changes require players like Nembhard and Mathurin to take on more prominent roles, pushing them into potential contention for the Most Improved Player award while also leaning on up-and-comers like Isaiah Jackson, Johnny Furphy, and Jarace Walker.
Despite the odds stacked against them, there remains an underlying hope within the organization. Team president Kevin Pritchard highlighted this sentiment, recalling the team’s success when operating with a “chip on their shoulder.” His message serves as a reminder of the Pacers’ capability to perform when underestimated.
Indiana stands on the brink of a pivotal season filled with both challenges and opportunities. With a roster that, while changing, still houses significant talent, the Pacers may well be poised to make an unexpected run, proving naysayers wrong once again.