The Indiana Pacers have one of the better rosters in the Eastern Conference, but things have not gone their way over the last few NBA seasons. Whether it is injuries to some of their stars or coming up short in the playoffs, the Pacers have underperformed over the years and could be on track to see some big organizational changes next year if they do not perform well this season. 

Ownership and management made it clear they want to win now by firing head coach Nate McMillan this offseason and as long as this team can stay healthy, they have a shot to do so. Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis are All-Star proven talents and with the emergence of TJ Warren last year, the Pacers could be a sneaky team in the Eastern Conference this season. 

With plenty of trade rumors circulating around Victor Oladipo and Myles Turner this offseason, no moves were made and both the Pacers’ front office and their players have assured the media and fans that they intend to stay with the Pacers and contend in the Eastern Conference.

While either player could still be traded near the trade deadline this season if things do not go well, the Pacers have the roster to be able to be better than they have been over the years.

Last year, the Indiana Pacers finished 45-28 and were the four-seed in the Eastern Conference. All season long, they were a below-average offensive team but made up for it on the defensive end of the court. TJ Warren, Malcolm Brogdon and Myles Turner are all elite level defenders and will once again be the anchors on the defensive end of the court for one of the better defensive teams in the league.

Entering the 2020-21 NBA season, the Pacers need to take advantage of their opportunities early on in the year, especially given their injury past. Hopefully everyone will be able to remain healthy for their sake, but Indiana’s track record is not promising. Their success is heavily focused on whether or not they can remain healthy and if they cannot, the Pacers could be facing yet another disappointing season.

While there are a lot of unknowns to be answered about the Indiana Pacers this season, here are 4 bold predictions for the Pacers as they enter the 2020-21 NBA season with high expectations.