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The Pacers embark on a new season, planning to take a new path to the end by utilizing a smaller, spread lineup and pushing the pace to score more points. Sounds like fun, if they can pull it off.
The opener in Toronto presents a perfect test case to get started since the Raptors remain among the playoff contenders in the East. After letting power Forward Amir Johnsson go, the Raps are a bit smaller themselves which makes for a good matchup with the Pacers new lineup. The also added DeMarre Carroll to add a little more defensive edge to their lineup.
The Pacers can mix and match how Paul George is utilized even if he appears to be the starting power forward. He may slide down to check DeMar DeRozan and let Patrick Patterson try to beat them. Regardless, the Pacers should be able to put PG in position to succeed at both ends.
The critical matchup will be in the backcourt where Kyle Lowry returns for Toronto, reportedly a few lbs down and ready to roll. He was already a problem so George Hill and Monta Ellis will have to find a way to neutralize Lowry's impact on the game, if not on defense then on O.
For more on the Raptors, check out RaptorsHQ. Also, please add your thoughts and observations in the game thread.
2015-16 NBA Regular Season | ||
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October 28, 2015 - 7:30 p.m. ET | ||
Air Canada Centre - Toronto, ON | ||
TV: FOX Sports Indiana ---- Radio: AM 1070/93.5 FM The Fan | ||
Probable Starters | ||
George Hill | PG | Kyle Lowry |
Monta Ellis | SG | DeMarre Carroll |
C.J. Miles | SF | DeMar DeRozan |
Paul George | PF | Patrick Patterson |
Ian Mahinmi | C | Jonas Valanciunas |