Pacers are learning harsh lesson they should've known all along

The Pacers are struggling early in the season, but that could ultimately be best for their long-term outlook as a lottery pick could be inevitable.

Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle during a game against the Golden State Warriors. | Eakin Howard/GettyImagesThe Indiana Pacers began the season with a 1-9 record, tied for the second-worst in the NBA with the Brooklyn Nets).

For a team that just made it to the NBA Finals less than a year ago, this is a major fall from grace. And for most teams, this would be a massive concern. But in Indiana's case, it might be the exact opposite.

The Pacers' struggles aren't a coincidence. They are currently without Tyrese Haliburton, who is going to miss…