Alex Golden and Mike Facci are back to recap everything we learned from the Pacers' annual preseason front office press conference with general manager Chad Buchanan and assistant general manager Ted Wu.
And there was A LOT to discuss.
The biggest news surrounds Tyrese Haliburton, who is preparing to return after missing all of last season. What did Buchanan reveal about Haliburton's health heading into training camp? How has his body changed during his time away? And what should Pacers fans expect as Tyrese finally gets back on the floor?
From there, Alex and Facci dive into Ivica Zubac and some fascinating comments from the front office about how Indiana plans to incorporate its new starting center.
Does Zubac need to adjust to the Pacers, or do the Pacers need to adjust to Zubac? What does the front office believe he can add to this group, and why is Indiana still extremely confident in the massive trade that brought him to Indianapolis?
The guys also discuss Kelly Oubre Jr. and what the Pacers believe their biggest offseason acquisition can bring to the rotation.
Then, there's an important health update on Johnny Furphy as he continues working his way back from a torn ACL. Alex and Facci break down where Furphy is in his recovery and what his timeline could mean for Indiana's depth this season.
The conversation also turns toward player development and how the Pacers plan to utilize their three two-way players. How much time will they spend developing with the Noblesville Boom? What type of roles does Indiana want them playing in the G League? And how does the organization balance development with preparing those players to contribute at the NBA level?
Plus, Buchanan and Wu discuss James Johnson's return for training camp, why the organization wanted him back around this group and the impact his veteran presence can have.
Finally, Alex and Facci react to what the front office had to say about Pascal Siakam's leadership and the role he has embraced inside the Pacers locker room.
Training camp is almost here, and the Pacers front office just gave us plenty to discuss before things officially get underway.
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