Indiana Pacers 2009 Draft

I can proudly say that Indiana is a consistent team. The problem is they are consistently finishing 1 or 2 spots out of the playoffs. This past season, they ran to the end of the season to find out if was them or Detroit getting the 8th seed, which Detroit did get. Danny Granger has developed into an all-star at the SF position and the Pacers have a solid PG in Tinsley, but they need some major help in their frontcourt if they want to actually make the playoffs.

At pick #13 the Pacers should draft:
DeJuan Blair - Pittsburgh
PF
6'6" 277 lbs.

Blair, though he is big enough to be a PF weight-wise, he is unexpectedly short for an NBA level PF. At 6'6" he would constantly be matched up with 6'9"-6'10" players who would outmuscle him. I would compare him to Paul Millsap. Blair's biggest strength is by far his rebounding, especially offensive. He also has a great passion and desire to win. His biggest weakness is his lack of mobility and ability to play an up-tempo game. Blair would be a solid backup to someone like Troy Murphy or could spend a year in the NBDL.

At pick #52 the Pacers should draft:
Tyrese Rice - Boston College
PG
6'0" 190 lbs.

Rice compares to Mo Williams. Rice would accel learning from an experienced veteran like Tinsley. Rice would be a huge steal at #52, possibly the steal of the draft. Rice is an explosive scorer, has excellent speed, and has great ball-handling skills. He also is one heck of a free throw shooter. His weakness is his lack of size, athleticism, and creative ability. Rice needs to develop a good shot off the dribble.

Predicted 2009-2010 record: 41-41