NBA futures: Pacers could be Central Division’s best bet

The Indiana Pacers are just one season removed from losing the NBA Finals in seven games to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Their star point guard, Tyrese Haliburton, suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the first quarter of that Game 7 and was sidelined all of last season.

But he’s back now, and if the preseason is any indication, he could return to his All-Star form.

On top of the return of their best player, the Pacers also added a high-quality big man in the offseason with the acquisition of center Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers. For me, this is a distinct upgrade over Myles Turner, who was part of the Pacers’ championship run two seasons ago.

As far as the Central Division race this season, the oddsmakers have the Detroit Pistons as the consensus favorite, followed closely by the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Pacers are seen clearly as the third favorite.

I’m not convinced the Pistons will be as good as last season with the departures of Tobias Harris and Isaiah Stewart. I see John Collins as a significant downgrade from Harris at the four.

As for the Cavaliers, I certainly don’t see as big a gap between them and the Pacers as the sportsbooks do. Cleveland will also be relying on a 37-year-old player — James Harden — to stay healthy for an entire season.

The Pacers to win the Central Division at 3-1 odds or better is good value to me. Grab it if you can.

Andy Roth has covered the NBA for various outlets since 1979. Follow him @arhooptalk. Read all his Hoops Wire articles here.