Analysis | As large-market teams chase stars or tank, Pacers take a moderate approach

Coach Nate McMillan has kept the Pacers afloat despite a season-ending injury to all-star guard Victor Oladipo. By Ben Golliver Ben Golliver NBA reporter Email Bio Follow March 23 at 9:45 AM To find the NBA’s countercultural capital, you must eschew both coasts and venture deep into the heartland. There, the Indiana Pacers stand, proudly rejecting the boom-or-bust philosophy employed by so many of the league’s high-profile teams.

Second — and perhaps more importantly — Indiana has ruled out racing to the bottom to collect draft lottery ping-pong balls. The Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns might stomach atrocious seasons for a ticket to the Zion Williamson sweepstakes, but not the Pacers — not even after they lost all-star guard Victor Oladipo to a season-ending quadriceps tear in January.

During their shared time with the Portland Trail Blazers, Pritchard and McMillan experienced an endless series of highs and lows. The Blazers dreamed about winning titles with a big three of Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge and Greg Oden, but career-altering injuries intervened. Pritchard and McMillan were fired before Portland advanced in the playoffs. After reconnecting in Indiana, Pritchard and McMillan have ignored hype and mood swings in favor of steadiness.

With a reasoned organizational philosophy, a no-nonsense coach and clearly defined roles, the Pacers have been free to blossom at their own pace. Turner, the league leader in blocks, has grown into a stalwart center and will receive defensive player of the year votes. Sabonis, a highly skilled and efficient finisher, is a leading sixth man of the year candidate. Young, a versatile forward, has stepped up as team captain and delivered strong two-way play.

are you saying they pace themselves?

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