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NBA Season Preview 2018-19: The Pacers are deeper than ever before

By Jacob Mooallem

INDIANAPOLIS - SEPTEMBER 24: Victor Oladipo #4 and Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers pose for a head shot during the Pacers Media Day on September 24, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and condition of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS - SEPTEMBER 24: Victor Oladipo #4 and Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers pose for a head shot during the Pacers Media Day on September 24, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and condition of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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The Pacers didn’t break the internet this summer with any of their moves, but some less-talked-about signings will help them in their quest to win the East.

The Indiana Pacers emerged as a young and dangerous team last year with their seven-game playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round. Prior to last season, they were the butt of plenty of jokes for trading Paul George for what seemed like low value. However, GM and President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard had the last laugh when Victor Oladipo emerged as a near-superstar last season, carrying the Pacers to fifth in the eastern conference, and beating their Las Vegas-projected win total by 17 games.

The Pacers are looking to build on that development this year, doubling down on their identity as a midrange-heavy team. The Pacers attempted more shots last season from between 15 and 19 feet than any other team in the league, they will likely solidify this style of play while also using their 3-point shooting to their advantage through floor spacing.

They are a much deeper team this year, and head coach Nate McMillan will look to utilize his new players to make a run at the division championship and become a conference championship contender.