35 years ago, Rick Carlisle started coaching as an assistant to Bill Fitch. Since then, he has never left the NBA benches, and in a week, he will begin his 24th season as head coach, and his record is exceptional: an NBA title with Dallas in 2011, 943 career victories and the winning records in two franchises, the Mavericks and the Pacers.
Precisely, with the Pacers, he created a surprise last season with a place in the final of the first NBA Cup and then in the conference final against the Celtics. His leaders are ambitious, and they gave him the means to do even better!
“I like our group. The depth of the roster played a big role for us last year, allowing us to reach the playoffs and get through two rounds. We are fortunate to have great players who give their all and give it their all.” he explains. “We're going to have to continue that this year, after having had some unexpected successes. We've put a target on our backs, which is great. But we'll have to make sure we stay that way.”
The year of the explosion for Mathurin?
What could allow the Pacers to do better is the contract extension of Pascal Siakam or the return from injury of Bennedict Mathurin.
“Having Pascal from day one is huge. Our front office has managed to extend the majority of our players at the end of their contracts.” Rick Carlisle continues. “Ben is a true competitor. He’s watched the team’s success in the playoffs and he’s seen what’s important. What’s going to be key for him is playing fast, making quick decisions on offense and shooting 3-pointers. Defensively, we’re going to need him to be physical and be ready to play tough opponents. If he does all that…we already know what he’s capable of.”
Haliburton to experience pressure
Finally, there is Tyrese Haliburton, who returned to the Pacers with an Olympic gold medal. A big revelation last season, the All-Star point guard will be expected to turn the corner, and he will have to prove that he can last 82 games.
“He just turned 24, so he's still very young.” reminds his coach. “The challenge is that when you have success, you want to build on it. He’s a player that the other team really focuses on. They play physical against him. They do everything they can to disrupt him. He’s challenged to play against the best defender on the opposing team almost every night. Last year, he had to deal with injuries. This summer, he’s worked a lot on his body. He’s gotten stronger and he’s hoping to get tougher and tougher. I know that’s a priority for him. And his experience with the Olympic team this summer should give him a lot of confidence.”
