Alec Burks - Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Although the Indiana Pacers are virtually absent in NBA circles after failing to qualify for the playoffs, the team exacted some surprising fireworks after hiring former coach Rick Carlisle, who is back with the Blue and Gold in his second stint with the franchise following his tumultuous exit from the Dallas Mavericks.
As we have mentioned here before, the hiring signifies and guarantees that the Pacers, despite a turbulent campaign this year, will attempt to extend their competitive lifespan by proving that it was coaching, and not a defective roster, that propelled the team towards a failed season after failing to crack the postseason for the first time in six years.