Pacers Links: Myles Turner finding his way in NBA

The Pacers' rookie has attacked his recent opportunity to play like he's had enough watching and wants to play all of the time. Now is the time to see how he handles more attention and tougher matchups, a challenge Turner has earned the right to face.

By Tom Lewis@IndyCornrows Jan 23, 2016, 11:29am EST

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Pacers rookie big man Myles Turner continued his evolution into a revelation for the Pacers with 31 points against the Warriors, a performance that demands more minutes as he continues to chow down on every opportunity to play.

The Pacers weren't ready for the speed of the Warriors to start the game which resulted in foul trouble and a big early deficit. As a team, once they adjusted to GSW's style of play that can't be replicated, results improved.

Myles Turner had a lot to do with the Pacers improved play over the final three quarters as the Dubs reserve rotation simply couldn't handle him. Most impressive was how comfortable Turner looked on the floor. Even as the Warriors kept scrambling and trying to maintain their signature form a chaos, the rook remained active yet in control around the rim.

The body control he displayed on the lob finish in transition shown below was even more evident in the second half when he received a tough pass in traffic, was fouled but still easily finished the layup. Sorry, but we've seen our share of missed bunnies in similar situations which made the drama free catch and finish SOOOO refreshing to watch.

Joe Young to Myles Turner Alley-Oop
The rookies with the alley-oop!
Posted by Indiana Pacers on Friday, January 22, 2016

Turner has played around 30 minutes in the past three games and has certainly earned the right to maintain at least that much court time. The Warriors eventually doubled Turner which didn't go well but is exactly the thing he needs to be exposed to as he continues to develop. Letting him start and face Boogie Cousins tonight in Sacramento would be another big step.

One the rook has earned.

Check out the links:

Game Preview: Pacers at Kings | Indiana Pacers

Game Rewind: Pacers 110, Warriors 122 | Indiana Pacers

The return of Steve Kerr, one of the happy Warriors

Rookies shine, but Pacers fall short vs. Warriors

Kerr back to having fun with Warriors behind 'amazing' fans | CSN Bay Area

Kawakami: Kerr happy, thankful on return to Warriors sideline - San Jose Mercury News

Stephen Curry triple doubles, Coach Kerr returns, Warriors win over Pacers 122 - 110 - Golden State Of Mind

Indiana Pacers Lose Honorably to Golden State Warriors

Kings vs. Pacers Preview: Kings look to push their win streak to five games - Sactown Royalty

Kings vs. Indiana Pacers at a glance | The Sacramento Bee