3 Reasons To Be Optimistic About The Indiana Pacers 2015-16 Season

The Indiana Pacers went through a very disappointing 2014-15 season, yet almost found a way to make it into the playoffs. This team is expected to rebound in a big way next season, meaning there are plenty of reasons for optimism:

1) Paul George will be 100% healthy

George was expected to miss the entire season after suffering a gruesome broken leg during a Team USA scrimmage, but he managed to return at the end of the season to contribute off the bench. However, he was playing on a minutes restriction and the injury was obviously still bothering him. Expect him to return to his All-Star status with another full offseason to heal.

2) Weak Eastern Conference

When totally healthy, the Pacers are easily in the second-tier of Eastern Conference teams with the Washington Wizards and Toronto Raptors. Even if they can't get back to the top of the conference, they should still make the playoffs with ease.

3) Defensive prowess

Indiana has been one of the best defensive teams in the league since hiring head coach Frank Vogel, and that will be their calling card again next season. Add in the boost they'll get on both ends of the floor from George, and the Pacers will be very, very good again in 2015-16.

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