In the midst of a scorching hot, 18-3 start to the season, it is easy to forget that the Indiana Pacers have a former 20+-point scorer returning from injury. Swingman Danny Granger has been on the shelf all season, but according to at least one report, he may be returning quicker than many expected.
Pacers forward Danny Granger says there is "a good chance" he makes his season debut on Friday.
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) December 10, 2013
Yahoo’s Marc Spears is reporting that Granger has a “good chance” to play on Friday night when Indiana takes on the Charlotte Bobcats at home, and that will be a nice fit for Granger to get his “sea legs” back. It is very interesting, however, to see what Granger’s thoughts were on not returning for Indy’s huge match-up against the Heat on Tuesday night.
Pacers Danny Granger said tonight's game vs Miami was too important for their team and he might have returned tonight if game wasn't as big
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) December 10, 2013
For me, that’s a stunning level of self-awareness by Granger to realize the stakes on Tuesday (and the difficulty of opponent) combined with his presumed level of rust. Granger and Paul George haven’t played together since George ascended to superstar heights, and now, this is unquestionably a situation where Granger is a supporting piece rather than an alpha dog.
Whether Granger’s return happens on Friday night isn’t definitive just yet, but I’m wholly intrigued to see him on the floor with the Pacers, and if he fits well, he can push them to even greater heights.