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Originally Posted by Pan Mengtu
I don't know if their future is as bright as some think. Even when they had everyone (minus Artest) back they still were mediocre. Even though Artest is a big piece, I think they have to basically start from scratch as far as rebuilding chemistry goes. You don't just stack talent and you all of the sudden have a good team. Continuity and familiarity among players is important too. What was the difference between 03 Pacers and 04 Pacers?
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I get your point somewhat, but right before the "Basketbrawl", the Pacers were soundly beating the defending NBA champions in their house. The Pacers were as good as any team in the league, and they were building the continuity and familarity you talk about. They didn't just "stack talent" by signing Jackson. Reggie Miller was a year or two from retirement, and they needed a solid replacement for him. Jackson is what they need, not just another offensive player on a stacked team. I think they'd be either the 1st or 2nd seed right now if it weren't for the Artest incident. I expect the Pacers to pick up where they left off next year, as far as having the full deck of players and being an elite team.
This O'neal injury is just the cherry on top of the molded cake for the Pacers. Better luck next year, pacers fans.