The Indiana Pacers target the playoffs in 2009-2010

The Indiana Pacers had a very mediocre season in the 08-09 season, finishing 36-46. The bright spot for the Pacers was their home record, 25-26. The Pacers were terrible on the road, 11-30. The Pacers had no trouble scoring, averaging 105 points per game, fifth in the NBA. The Pacers’ defense was one of the worst in the NBA, giving up over 106 points per game for 26th place.

The Pacers have one of the best scorers in the entire NBA, Danny Granger. Granger averaged 25 points per game. Granger is a franchise player to build a team. Guard TJ Ford had one of his best seasons to date with 15 points per game and 5 assists. If the Pacers ever hope to compete in the same division as the Cleveland Cavaliers, their defense needs to get better and better fast.

The Pacers drafted former college player of the year Tyler Hansbrough; it is unknown what impact he will have in his rookie year. What Hansbrough lacks in skill, he makes up for in hustle.

The Pacers lack a scoring big man. Mike Dunleavy averaged 15 points per game but at 6-9 he’s not a true center but more of a forward. Roy Hibbert should have a better year than he did in 08′-09′, as a rookie Hibbert averaged 7 points per game. If Hibbert can develop a more refined inside game, he should be a force because at 7-2 he is one of the tallest players in the NBA.

The Pacers should win more than 36 games this coming season. The Pacers have a shot at the eighth or seventh seed, even if everyone plays to their full potential and the defense improves. Granger should have an all-star season and be among the scoring leaders once again.