The Pacers had a great week, reeling off four wins including a pair against quality Eastern Conference foes that now has them sitting in third place, just two games behind Toronto in the top spot. Thaddeus Young played a huge role all week, but really raised his game in the wins over Milwaukee and Philly and the league took notice.
Young was named NBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week and the honor is well deserved. Sure Thad averaged 18.8 points, 9.8 rebounds and 3.8 assists over the four-game stretch. But giving himself up physically to guard Giannis Antetokounmpo and Ben Simmons, and in doing so altering the game with his defense, is why he should be honored.