Nostalgia for the Indiana Pacers
As the new NBA season approaches, nostalgia lingers over last year’s surprising playoff run by the Indiana Pacers. Initially seen merely as a potential No. 7 seed, Indiana defied expectations by finishing fourth in the Eastern Conference with a stunning 50-win record, eventually pushing their way to Game 7 of the NBA Finals. This prompts an intriguing question: which teams could replicate that unexpected success in the upcoming season?
Potential Contenders in the Eastern Conference
Focusing on the Eastern Conference, we find three teams that could emerge from the shadows this year, while the Western Conference appears crowded with established contenders like the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets, making sudden upsets less likely.
Orlando Magic
A prime candidate for a dramatic ascent this season is the Orlando Magic. Last season, despite key players Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner dealing with significant injuries, they clinched the No. 7 seed. Now, with Banchero, who averaged 29.5 points and 7.5 rebounds, and Wagner, who tallied 24.2 points and 5.7 rebounds this summer, the Magic are primed for a leap into the upper echelon of the league. Their defense was particularly noteworthy last year, finishing second overall in the NBA, thanks to standout defenders like Jonathan Isaac and Jalen Suggs.
Orlando recognized the need for improved shooting to complement their star duo, bringing in Desmond Bane, a versatile 3-point shooter with a 41% success rate. Additionally, Tyus Jones was acquired to enhance depth at the point guard position, providing them the firepower required to compete at a higher level. With their solid defensive foundation and new offensive capabilities, the Magic have a legitimate shot at advancing deep into the playoffs this year.
Atlanta Hawks
Another team to watch is the Atlanta Hawks, who have crafted a roster designed to optimize the talents of superstar Trae Young, now entering his eighth season. This summer, the front office made significant moves to bolster the team’s defensive and offensive balance. The addition of Kristaps Porzingis as a versatile rim protector and pick-and-roll partner has enhanced their lineup, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard bring much-needed shooting to the wings.
The return of Jalen Johnson is particularly promising; he was averaging nearly 19 points and 10 rebounds before an injury curtailed his last season. With several new pieces fitting seamlessly around Young’s evolving game, there’s a palpable sense that the Hawks could transform from last season’s No. 8 seed into a legitimate title contender, should they remain healthy and cohesive throughout the year.
Detroit Pistons
Finally, the Detroit Pistons represent a team with significant growth potential. Having more than tripled their win total from two years prior, they, like Indiana, find themselves projected between fifth and seventh place in a mostly down Eastern Conference. Cade Cunningham is set to lead the squad after an impressive previous season, showcasing his skills with averages of 26.1 points and 9.1 assists.
The Pistons also look to Jaden Ivey, who was disrupting defenses before an injury sidelined him last year, and Jalen Duren, who contributed robust numbers in scoring and rebounding. However, replacing Malik Beasley will be essential, and the acquisition of Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson is aimed at fulfilling that role. Though seen as less likely than Orlando and Atlanta to make a deep playoff push, the Pistons cannot be underestimated; bold moves could elevate them significantly in the playoff hunt.
