Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Paul George calls the playoffs a new start for himself and the Indiana Pacers.
The Pacers are the No. 3 seed in the NBA West playoffs, but at one time appeared set to be a solid No. 2 seed. A late-season slide not only put the Pacers at No. 3, but has perhaps shaken the confidence the team had for a successful playoff run.
They play the No. 6 seed Atlanta Hawks starting on Sunday, and it’s likely to be a series that could go seven games. The Hawks know the Pacers are vulnerable and are entering the series with plenty of confidence. But, the Pacers claim they are also confident, despite their recent slide. If they can win the first two games in Indiana, they’ll be all set. If not, the Hawks could be in a good position for the Series win.
Coach Frank Vogel insists it’s a matter of getting back to the basics, especially offensively. Defense indeed wins games, but the Pacers have been sharp in that area. They’re losing because they’re not getting enough offense.
George said the playoffs are a fresh start, and time for a new streak and different habits. He played all but three of Indiana’s 82 regular season and ended with 17.4 points, 7.6 rebounds and 37.6 minutes a game.
His average in points and minutes tops the team, which obviously makes George a key player. He’s shooting 42.0 percent from the floor and 36.2 percent in 3-pointers. If he can get his offense up a few notches, the Pacers could make it a quick series.
