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NBA Free Agency 2017: 5 offseason needs for the Indiana Pacers

By Jason Klaer

Apr 12, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) reacts to scoring and getting fouled during a game against the Atlanta Hawks at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats Atlanta 104-86. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 12, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) reacts to scoring and getting fouled during a game against the Atlanta Hawks at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats Atlanta 104-86. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 2, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis (11) reacts in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 2, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis (11) reacts in the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Add worthwhile reserves

At the conclusion of 2016-17, Indiana ranked 18th in total bench scoring per game (33.3). A handful of Pacers suffered a statistically down season. Monta Ellis averaged only 8.5 points in 74 games while Al Jefferson scored 8.1 points per contest. Jefferson missed 16 games due to injury and his age is only increasing. Indiana sports a solid starting lineup. At the same time, the bench is in need for a tune-up. At this point, Indiana needs to begin looking into the draft, as young raw talent awaits.

Indiana holds the 18th pick and could use a variety of players. Gauging which player fits best is a tough task, but they need shooting and defense at pretty much every position. A rookie with experience like Dillon Brooks or Josh Hart could provide the scoring and defense they need, while being able to contribute right away.

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