2018-19 Season Preview - Indiana Pacers

Opportunities and Threats:

Sabonis and Turner

The potential of big man Myles Turner is sky high. He regressed last season, owing to untimely injuries but he hasn't let it hold him back. He has hit the gym and looks fitter compared to last season. He has also taken up Yoga to improve his flexibility and state of mind. The 11th overall pick in the 2015 draft still has a lot left in his tank to become an elite two-way force in the league. Blessed with lockdown defense and a sweet midrange jumper, it's up to him now to make the big jump and emulate Oladipo to become the next star big man.

Another interesting proposition is the development and evolution of Domantas Sabonis. He had all the tools to become a solid Power forward in the long run when he was in OKC. All he needed was some play time and he got exactly this in Indiana. The Lithuanian had the best season of his career, becoming a pick and roll expert and a very clever playmaker and scorer. There are still concerns over his defense but these can be ironed out with proper training.

But both big men seem to strive in the Center position. Coach Nate McMillan has his task cut out to efficiently manage the minutes and keep both happy given the uncertainty of their contract situations. Turner's contract is up this summer while Domantas' expires in the next year. Managing to provide adequate minutes to the already crowded back-court and trying to sort out the Turner-Sabonis conundrum will prove to be head scratching for McMillan.