Five Predictions for the Hailburton's Pacers this season

It's been a long off-season for the Indiana Pacers and their fans. It's been 16 months since Tyrese Haliburton played in a non-exhibition game. And now, we are officially under a week until the long wait is finally over.

On Thursday, we learned what predictions the NBA GM's have for the Pacers this season. It's only fitting to give some of our own. Here are five predictions for the 2026-2027 version of the Indiana Pacers.

1. Pacers will host Game 1 of the 1st round.

When you look at the predictions across the industry, you'll mostly see the Pacers falling in the 6-8 seed range. I'm still going top-four. It clearly won't be easy, as the Eastern Conference looks very deep and stacked. There's a very real scenario where some really good teams are battling it out in the play-in games. The difference between the four-seed and the eight-seed might only be a handful of games when all is said and done.

The continuity, overall depth, and hunger for the Pacers is what leads me to this prediction. Clearly, health of the team will be a major factor. If they can stay relatively healthy, I think we'll see a Game 1 at the Fieldhouse.

2. Kelly Oubre Jr. will be a better fit than Bennedict Mathurin.

Some may find this obvious. Others may find it crazy. Bennedict Mathurin is still a bit of a polarizing player in the eyes of many. At times over the last few years, he looked to be well on his way of landing a massive contract when he reached free agency. Instead, he ended up with 2 years and 15.4 million with New Orleans. He still has lots of talent and could still flourish in his career. For the Pacers, however, it wasn't always the right fit.

Mathurin did give the Pacers a different dynamic off the bench. He had a huge Game 3 in the NBA Finals and plenty of other big moments. However, you always got the impression the Pacers wanted a little more from that spot when it came to passing and defense. Enter: Kelly Oubre Jr.

Oubre Jr. isn't a high assist total player, but he can move the ball well within the offense. He can guard multiple positions. And at least for last year, he shot 36% from three and will give the Pacers offense another threat from deep.