Pacers Season Hits New Low With D- Grade After Finals Run

The Indiana Pacers have received a dismal D- grade in a recent Bleacher Report season report card. This comes just months after the team competed in the NBA Finals. The 6-18 start is one of the league’s worst records this year.

Injuries have devastated the roster, most notably the loss of star guard Tyrese Haliburton. The team has used 22 different players, forcing constant lineup changes. This context makes the poor performance understandable but no less disappointing for fans.

Injury Crisis Derails Early Hopes

The Pacers’ season began to unravel before it even started. Haliburton suffered a significant Achilles injury during the offseason. His absence created a massive void in the team’s offensive and defensive schemes.

Other key players have also missed considerable time. According to analysis shared on social media, the Pacers rank second in the league for most players missing games. This injury toll has made building any consistent rhythm nearly impossible.

The team’s financial cost has been high as well. They have added over $1.5 million in salary to field replacement players. Reports indicate they have paid out the most in salary money to start the season.

Bright Spots Emerge From the Rubble

Despite the team’s struggles, individual performances offer hope. Forward Bennedict Mathurin is enjoying a true breakout year. He is averaging 21.2 points and shooting nearly 43% from three-point range.

Center Jay Huff has been a defensive revelation in limited minutes. He currently leads the entire NBA in blocks per game at 2.4. Veteran Pascal Siakam continues to be a reliable force, averaging over 24 points and 7 rebounds.

The silver lining may be long-term. The Pacers retain control of their future first-round draft picks. A high selection in the upcoming deep draft could accelerate their next competitive window when Haliburton returns.

This season has become a painful reset for the Pacers organization. The D- grade reflects a harsh new reality after their Finals appearance. The focus must now shift to development and preparing for a healthier future.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What was the Indiana Pacers’ grade from Bleacher Report?

Bleacher Report’s early season analysis gave the Pacers a D- grade. This was based on their 6-18 record and injury-plagued start to the year.

Why are the Pacers struggling so much this season?

The primary reason is a catastrophic wave of player injuries. The team has used 22 different players, with star Tyrese Haliburton out for the season.

Who is performing well for Indiana despite the losses?

Bennedict Mathurin is having a career year, averaging over 21 points. Jay Huff leads the NBA in blocks, and Pascal Siakam remains a consistent scoring threat.

Do the Pacers have any hope for the near future?

Yes. The team controls all its future draft picks. A high selection this year, combined with Haliburton’s return, could quickly make them competitive again.

How does this season compare to last year?

It is a dramatic fall. Last season, Indiana reached the NBA Finals. This year, they are one of the bottom teams in the Eastern Conference.