The Indiana Pacers have recently
embarked on an impressive six-game winning streak, elevating their
season record to 22-18 and securing the fifth spot in the Eastern
Conference. This resurgence is particularly noteworthy given their
slow start to the season. A standout moment during this streak was
their 108-93 victory over the league-leading Cleveland Cavaliers,
which snapped Cleveland’s 12-game winning streak. 

Several factors have contributed
to the Pacers’ recent success, with significant improvements on
both ends of the court.

Enhanced defensive strategies

The Pacers have placed a renewed
emphasis on defense, incorporating zone defenses into their
repertoire. According to Sports Illustrated, the Pacers worked on
zone strategies during training camp, aiming to disrupt opponents’
rhythms and force them into uncomfortable positions. This tactical
adjustment has been effective; in preseason games, opponents
averaged just 0.33 points per possession against the Pacers’ zone
defense, shooting a mere 1-for-14 from the field. 

This strategic shift has carried
over into the regular season. Over the past eight games, the Pacers
have allowed 113.4 points per 100 possessions, a notable
improvement from earlier in the season. Their defensive rebound
rate has also increased, limiting opponents’ second-chance
opportunities. 

Key defensive contributions from players

Individual performances have
been pivotal in the Pacers’ defensive resurgence. Andrew Nembhard,
returning from injury, has been instrumental as one of the team’s
best on-ball defenders, capable of guarding multiple positions. His
presence has contributed to the team’s improved defensive metrics,
with the Pacers’ defense being over 11 points per 100 possessions
better when he’s on the court, according to Forbes.

Additionally, rookie Ben
Sheppard’s energy and team defense have been valuable. His return
has coincided with the Pacers’ defensive improvements, as the team
allows a lower three-point percentage with him on the
floor. 

Offensive efficiency and ball security

Offensively, the Pacers have
demonstrated increased efficiency, particularly in transition. By
reducing turnovers, they’ve limited opponents’ fast-break
opportunities while creating more scoring chances for themselves.
This focus on ball security has been evident during their winning
streak, where they’ve maintained a positive turnover
differential. 

In their victory over the
Cavaliers, the Pacers outscored Cleveland 68-40 in the second half,
showcasing their offensive prowess. Despite losing star guard
Tyrese Haliburton to hamstring tightness at halftime, the team
maintained composure and executed their game plan effectively and
efficiently.

Balanced scoring and bench contribution

The Pacers’ offense has
benefited from balanced scoring, with multiple players stepping up
when needed. In the game against Cleveland, Andrew Nembhard led
with 19 points, while Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner added 18 and
15 points, respectively. The bench has also been productive; Obi
Toppin contributed significantly during the Cavaliers game, scoring
10 points in a crucial five-minute span. 

This depth has allowed the
Pacers to maintain offensive pressure throughout games, preventing
opponents from focusing their defensive efforts on a single player.
The team’s ability to share the scoring load makes them a more
versatile and unpredictable opponent.

– – –

The Indiana Pacers’ recent
ascent in the Eastern Conference is just the beginning of a long
season. As they continue to build on these strengths, the Pacers
are positioning themselves as a formidable contender once again in
the East after an Eastern Conference Finals appearance just a
season ago.