| Point-Counterpoint: Pacer Style Authored by Andrew Perna/Brandon Rucker - October 23, 2006 - 6:14 pm
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Brandon: This year the Pacers have probably the hardest decisions to make ever in regards to their final roster, particularly considering the likes of point guard Orien Greene, power forward Josh Powell, guard/forward Rawle Marshall, and center John Edwards, who are all on the bubble (guard Jimmie “Snap” Hunter and forward Sean Lampley have already been waived). Despite having to eat Edwards’ guaranteed salary of about $1.1 million, I would like to see him waived so that Powell can make the final roster. He bangs in the paint, rebounds, and can hit the 15-footer. The other roster spot should go to point guard Orien Greene because he’s the defensive point this team has always needed, and in just one game he’s proven he can be a playmaker as well as a decent mid-range shooter.
Andrew: Good analysis, but I have to disagree. I don't think Greene should get one of the final two rosters spots. There's a reason Boston let him go, and as unfortunate as it is, I think his injury (broken finger) will end up having a negative effect on making the final cut. I thought Jimmie Hunter should have made the roster because the Pacers figure to run more and score more than in recent years. Hunter is the offensive presence they needed out of their point guard when Tinsley and Jasikevicus aren't on the floor. The last remaining spot, even though we're stocked at the position, has to go to Rawle Marshall. He's shown the most promise and looks as though he could end up being more than a 'throw-in' from the Dallas deal.
Brandon: And there’s a reason Hunter hasn’t made it onto a roster after all these years. Hunter didn’t make the cut largely because he’s lacking in point guard skills, and it appears they have chosen Greene over Hunter due to the general lack of defense the Pacers have (historically) displayed in the backcourt.
Topic 2: Who Should Start?
Brandon: Like everyone else, I believe Marquis Daniels is not only a better shooting guard, but a more all-around player than Stephen Jackson, so ideally I’d like to see Daniels with the starting unit of O’Neal (center), Harrington (power forward), Granger (small forward), and Tinsley (point guard). Yet surprisingly I actually do support the likely lineup that would feature Jackson instead because I think he will fare better as a third/fourth option with the starting unit than he would as a first option with the reserve unit. And really, the exposure wouldn’t hurt what little trade value he may someday have again, as being buried and pouting on the bench would.
Andrew: Bringing Daniels off the bench, in favor of Jackson is a great idea. But not necessarily for the reason(s) you stated. Having Daniels as the sixth man will give Indiana the ultimate advantage over their opponent's second unit. As you said, Jackson works better as a third/fourth option, but I don't think you can discount the fact that Daniels could be better as a go-to guy for the second unit. A second unit that includes Daniels as the ball-hander, Jasikevicius as the shooter, and Harrison as the bruiser, could help the starters rest for quite a long time.
Topic 3: Should Carlisle Coach This Team?
Brandon: I don’t think Carlisle is the ideal coach for this team, but he has been extended for at least two more seasons. Not to ignore all of his positives and accomplishments, but I just don’t think he’s the “teacher” that this young team needs. This team needs someone like a younger Larry Brown (before he lost his mind); or a player’s coach who truly teaches the game. If only Hubie Brown were younger…
Andrew: Carlisle is one of the best coaches in the NBA when it comes to coaching the game of basketball. If a team needs a 'players' coach then that should fall on the players themselves for being immature and needing a “teacher” at such a high level. Carlisle is Bird's man and I believe he’ll remain the coach for many years to come.
Brandon: Not sure what immaturity has to do with teaching or anything else I mentioned, but likeability and the ability to relate are characteristics that I'm sure many players would like in a coach. Either way, core players like O'Neal, Jackson and Tinsley have given Coach Carlisle their blessing, which he said was key in his decision to sign the extension.
Topic 4: Make or Break Season for Harrison?
Brandon: Third-year center David Harrison absolutely must show marked improvement this season or I think his expiring fourth year (next season) should be packaged with a future pick for an honest-to-goodness center, which no other team would be foolish enough to deal to us. But you get my point.
Andrew: I agree that this year will be Harrison's make-or-break year, but I'm willing to give him more time. With Foster and Baston capable of playing center, and O'Neal a candidate for the starting position, Harrison has time to grow. Given time he could become an elite center in the center-depleted Eastern Conference.
Brandon: Offensively he has shown some nice flashes, but defensively is where he’s troubled and the team’s overall D has along with him. He is the Central Division’s Eddy Curry at this point, only with a better work ethic.
Topic 5: Harrington, “The Man”?
Brandon: Will he be the “savior” for the Pacers this year? In a way I think so. More importantly I think he will emerge as the de facto leader of this team. He’s already the emotional heart and soul by default, because that’s just who he is, but I think his voice will be just as loud as O’Neal’s in the locker room and on the court.
Andrew: I find it hard to disagree with you on this one. I agree that Al's voice will carry almost as much weight as Jermaine's, even though he didn't play with many of the current Pacers. Harrington may not win a ton of games for the team on the court, but in the locker room he'll lead by example. He is a huge boost for fan moral as well.
Topic 6: Worst Case Scenario?
Brandon: If this new experiment fails and this team tanks into the lottery (or close to it), do they blow it all up? A rebuild could be a public relations nightmare.
Andrew: I don't think what this team has overcome in the last few years can be classified as anything less than a 'rebuild.' There are only four players on the roster this season that were on the team two seasons ago...that's a pretty high turnover. I think it would take another season of drama and injuries in order for the Pacers to make the lottery, but if they do I won't be surprised to see big names like J.O go.
Brandon: I am of the belief that Pacers fans have no patience for a true rebuild. Initially they may be relieved and intrigued by the idea of a shiny new penny, but will not want to endure the pains it takes to grow that into a crisp dollar.
Andrew can be reached at Andrew.Perna@realgm.com |
