THE SKINNY
While the last two games weren't as smooth as the first two under Vogel, the Pacers still put up strong performances against the Heatles and on the back end of a back-to-back game that resulted in a narrow escape. Tonight, the Pacers go against one of the worst teams in the league and their newly minted all-star, Kevin Love. The Timberwolves shouldn't be counted out, however. They have youth and have won two games in a row.
THE LINEUPS
Point Guard
Jonny Flynn has not fared as well as Darren Collison despite being selected quite a few spots ahead. He has come off the bench for most of the season, and has recently taken the starting role due to complications with Luke Ridnour's newborn twin. Collison should take advantage of the size similarity, the speed advantage, and Flynn's turnover tendencies to spark the Pacers running game.
Shooting Guard
Mike Dunleavy has had two relatively unproductive games in a row. He has shot only 2-7 in that span. The swingman must regain his stroke to anchor the wing rotation with Granger, George, and Jones, or he may be losing the starting job when Rush returns fully from injury. He's playing a lengthy, pesky Corey Brewer. Brewer is shooting abysmally on the season, but his real contribution is on the defensive end.
Small Forward
After a couple of turbulent seasons in Miami, Beasley arrived in Minnesota and began posting Granger-like numbers. Granger has not had the most inspirational defensive performances over the last two games, usually getting beat by more athletic opponents. He needs to get back to fundamentals and start challenging the right shots and going for the right gambles.
Power Forward
Josh McRoberts flirted with a triple-double in the win against the Charlotte Bobcats. He has the potential to challenge Kevin Love on the boards with his strength and athleticism. He needs to make putting a body on Love his priority. Love is also a crafty offensive player, so McBob will have his work cut out for him.
Center
Roy Hibbert is a man with a mission. Since Vogel has taken over, he has recorded 4 double-doubles, including a 29-10-2 performance against the Bobcats to tie a career high in points. His motivation and newfound dominance take him right up against fellow MIP candidate (and consensus leader) Kevin Love.
THE BENCH
With all the injuries, it looks as though the Timberwolves may have to turn to Wesley Johnson and Nikola Pekovic to help out a depleted frontline. The Pacers should be winning on the boards, especially when Kevin Love sits.
THE COACHES
Kurt Rambis is the man who benched Kevin Love. Frank Vogel is the man who unleashed Roy Hibbert. That's all I'm saying.
THE INJURY REPORT
Pacers
Brandon Rush - Ankle: Maybe.
Wolves
Michael Beasley - Ankle: Maybe.
Darko Milicic - Hip: Maybe.
Martell Webster - Back: No.
THE HEAVY MATTERS
-Push the frontcourt advantage. Box Kevin Love out. At least a part of his rebounding success is the fact that he is surrounded by inept rebounders.
-Darren Collison/Roy Hibbert. These two have played great as of late, and continuing that would go a long way in establishing the Pacers.
THE TRADITION
Tyler just said the F word.