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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 17, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Indiana Pacers head coach Nate McMillan talks a referee during the first half in game two of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 17, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Indiana Pacers head coach Nate McMillan talks a referee during the first half in game two of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Retain Nate McMillan

In his first season, Nate McMillan gave it his all with the Pacers. Despite a disappointing sweep, he led Indiana to the playoffs and a 42-40 record. McMillan has been a part of the Pacers’ organization since the 2013-14 season. He served has assistant coach under Frank Vogel for three seasons before taking his place at the head of the bench when Vogel’s contract was not renewed. With the Sonics, McMillan made the playoffs twice in five years. He left to take a job with the Portland Trail Blazers. McMillan failed to make the playoffs in his first three seasons, but then clinched a spot the next three.

He also has been an assistant coach under Coach K with the United States Men’s National team. Without a doubt he is an average coach at the pro level. On the other hand, he knows this franchise well which would help with continuity. If the Pacers are trying to hang on to George, now is not the time to rock the boat. Keeping George happy is key and while changing players may be one thing, changing the coaching staff is completely different.

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