Things have been tough in Indiana with the Pacers looking like a mediocre team for most of the season. Currently sitting at 37-37 and the seventh spot in the East, the Pacers are in danger of losing out on the postseason altogether. If they hold on to their spot, no one expects them to make much noise.
Perhaps that’s why their latest loss set off some fireworks. Indiana racked up another defeat at the hands of what should be inferior competition with the Wolves pulling away for a 115-114 win on Tuesday.
After the game, Pacers’ star Paul George had some interesting comments about the loss and the state of the team:
Paul George: “There’s no urgency, no sense of urgency, no winning pride. This locker room is just not pissed off enough.”
— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) March 29, 2017
PG was asked if anyone on the team is at his level of urgency.
PG: "I'm not going to answer that."
— Jon R. LaFollette (@JonFilet) March 29, 2017
Paul George: “To be honest, man, I don’t think I got the ball enough down the stretch. I don’t think I got the ball enough.”
— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) March 29, 2017
This should all be really concerning for the Pacers and their fans. George’s future in Indiana is not exactly set in stone; it’s unlikely that he will qualify for a designated veteran extension this summer and he will hit the open market next year.
There have been a lot of recent reports that George is infatuated with the Lakers in particular with the hope that their young core will be ready to contend with him in two years.
The Pacers have been adamant that they will not be trading PG13 but as his situation in Indy continues to deteriorate, it’s fair to wonder if that’s a better option than risking losing him for nothing.
It’s a very fluid situation right now; perhaps Indiana can get back to better basketball next year and lure George into re-signing long-term. But right now, things are not looking good for the Pacers for this season and beyond.
