Now that the euphoria of the recent Eastern Conference Championship has subsided, the Indiana Pacers are headed to the NBA Finals as a clear underdog.
However, a betting line is set by our friends in Vegas to draw action on both sides and rarely anything else, especially when there isn’t a big difference in the talent level on the respective rosters or the style of play that both teams can demonstrate.
Yes, these squads love to run and get to the three-point line, but Oklahoma City is a better team defensively and can match up with any lineup the Pacers choose. Here are five things the Pacers must do to win their first NBA Championship against OKC.
1) Hold their own on the boards. The Pacers have no dominant rebounder on the roster, so they’ll attempt to do it by committee. Someone has to have a big night to make an impact and prevent the Thunder from making it a party on the offensive glass. Make it personal and physical.
2) Defend hard but without excessive fouling. Keep them off the charity strip as much as possible, and mix it up with a zone defensive look as well.
3) Don’t fall in love with the three-point shot. Maintaining great ball movement will create good looks, but not every shot needs to be of the three-point variety.
4) Execute the half-court set offense the way the coaching staff draws it up. Don’t vary and freelance unless it’s truly absolutely necessary. Trust Rick Carlisle. Ask him to show you his championship ring, as he’s the reason you’re in the NBA Finals.
5) Stay focused and maintain your composure no matter what the situation is. Refrain from making gestures towards the opposition and their fan base.
Ignore social media and don’t speak to any non-credentialed reporters who aren’t participating in the NBA-mandated sessions. Turn off your cellphones and ignore ticket requests for anyone who isn’t immediate family. If you don’t think this is crucial, you’re wrong. Stay home and don’t socialize for the next two weeks. Let your road routine be the hotel room, team meetings and practices. Again, you have zero chance of winning if you do not remain focused on the game.
Handle your business quietly and accordingly. It’s not that hard to remain disciplined against the opposition. Ignore distractions.
Danny Bridges, who has no extra tickets for games three and four and will be watching the road games with his dogs, can be reached at 317-370-8447 or at bridgeshd@aol.com.
Danny Bridges is an award-winning journalist and a longtime sports columnist for the Indianapolis Recorder. He covers college, professional sports and especially all things IndyCar racing. He can be reached at 317-370-8447 or at bridgeshd@aol.com.
