Murray_17 wrote:mjkvol wrote:The Pacers can't get to the rim over even clean looks from 3 against this swarming defense, the only chance they have to keep games close is to spam 3's and hit a crazy % like they did in the 4th quarter of game 1. OKC is too deep with long wings who can guard, they defend the rim and are still able to close hard on 3's, and they can play big or small as they choose. And they have the best shot creator in the game right now.
OKC gives the most corner 3s in the entire league, and Indiana was exploiting that pretty good in the first quarter. It would also help them extend the OKC defense. Playing Hali off ball also is a great option because you had Dort glued to him so you can get a side of the floor clean
And then the bench unit came and the game went to ****
I get that Carlisle doesn't like to over-extend players, but this is the finals, just play your best guys all the minutes it takes. Yes, it's a long shot, and you need to shoot well every time to win, but if that's what it takes, just do it. It's not like you have to worry about keeping guys fresh for another series. Not that I think this is gonna make them favorites or that they can actually win, but it's the closest you're gonna get to do it.
Yeah OKC has, probably, the best defense in the story of the league that's tailor-made to stop you, and they also have the MVP. More reason to stick to the desperate plan
Carlisle sticks with the deep rotation so they can play at the pace they play and pressure the ball for 48 minutes. Problem is, as you alluded to, they are at such a talent disadvantage that guys like TJ are unplayable in this series.
My guess is he goes down playing the way that has worked for them so far in the playoffs, but it'll be interesting to see how he adjusts in game 3.
