Pacers Sign Monta Ellis Despite the Kings Efforts
By Dave McKee
Apr 14, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers fans cheer during a game against the Washington Wizards at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Monta Ellis: The Reaction
Schematically, the addition of Ellis to the Pacers is a slam dunk. The Pacers want to push the ball by going smaller and more up tempo. He is similar in stature to current point guard George Hill. There styles actually compliment the others weaknesses. Both are small and quick combo guards guards. Hill’s strength is on the perimeter on offense and defense while Ellis is a slasher whose game is predicated on penetration. Ellis can create his own offense off the dribble, catch-and-shoot attacking the basket.
Here we go! Let's get back to where we belong Indy... On top! #DopeEdit https://t.co/p3qTanJcKK
— Paul George (@Yg_Trece) July 2, 2015
Paul George is definitely happy with this signing. Ellis’ biggest impact might be felt when the Pacers utilize their smaller lineup. Ellis can take some of the offensive pressure off of Paul George by making the defense account for him. Ellis’ ability to push the ball in transition will generate more open looks on the wing for the likes of Hill, George and C.J. Miles. When he does decide to take it to the hoop Ellis has an uncanny knack for avoiding block shots and finishing at the basket with touch.
"Monta Ellis 360 reverse layup"
A faster tempo and point production are Indiana’s top priority even if that requires sacrificing some of their staunch defensive philosophy. Ellis’ quickness has yet to translate to his defensive game an he can be a liability on that end of the floor. However, with a solid rim protector behind him and other stout perimeter defenders on the floor his gambles on defense can be accounted for
I actually think Pacers are really good fit for Monta Ellis. They need scoring. George Hill and Paul George can mask his defensive issues.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) July 2, 2015
He has an aggressive tendency to jump the passing lane rather than stick to his man. When it works its a fast break. When it doesn’t …well, here’s to hoping the help defense is there on time. All-in-all the risk is worth the reward as long as Ellis continues to produce on the offensive end of the court. At 29 there are still plenty of good years left for Ellis and he can be the catalyst to bringing the offense back to life. Which for Pacers fans is a huge relief.