The Pacers continue dealing with various ailments while prepping for the season opener in Charlotte.
As the Pacers started prepping for their next game over the weekend, the first game that counts in Charlotte on Wednesday, Rick Carlisle confirmed that Caris LeVert would not be suiting up when the season tips.
In fact, LeVert will miss at least the first four games and then his status will be updated after the stress fracture in his lower back is re-evaluated on Oct. 25.
With the way LeVert was moving around and working out on his own without any apparent discomfort, there seemed to be some hope that he may be ready to go once the season started. Obviously, that is not the case and was also not a fair assessment based on practice video clips. In fact, Carlisle made a point to mention that this news wasn’t a setback and that LeVert was doing well.
On the good news front, Malcolm Brogdon let everyone know (via Scott Agness) on Monday that he plans to play against the Hornets. Justin Holiday will also hopes to be ready to go but his status has not been confirmed. Both guys are needed, just for their perimeter shooting.
Among the links today, a great profile of Chris Duarte by David Woods of the Indy Star. Everyone knows the general story of Duarte’s path from the Dominican Republic to the NBA via junior college, but the details of the difficulties along the way make the journey even more impressive. Take a look and feel free to add more Pacers/NBA links of interest in the comments.
Check out the links:
Game Rewind: Pacers 94, Cavaliers 110 (Preseason) | Indiana Pacers
Pacers: Caris LeVert getting closer but will miss first four games
2021-22 Season Preview: Indiana Pacers | NBA.com
Chris Duarte: Pacers rookie took an unusual route to the NBA – Indy Star
Indiana Pacers Season Preview: Can Rick Carlisle’s Influence Reinvigorate The Franchise?
Power Rankings, Week 1: Bucks, Nets and Suns start season on top | NBA.com
2022 NBA Win Totals Betting Guide: Over/Under Picks & Analysis For Every Team
Indiana Pacers: The good, bad and ugly from the 2021 NBA Preseason