Pacers demolish NBA’s worst 76ers behind Paul George

The Indiana Pacers were back to their winning ways last night in Philadelphia when they beat down the 76ers, 112-85, behind 34 points from Paul George.

Are this year’s Philadelphia 76ers even a real NBA team? I’m not so sure. Between the near 30-point loss and fielding six guys on the floor at the same time (a couple of which might not make another NBA roster), the 76ers continue to be one of the most embarrassing situations in the league. Last night’s loss brings them to 0-12, the only team with three 0-12 starts in NBA history.

But, last night wasn’t about Philadelphia, and this site isn’t about the 76ers. The Indiana Pacers were excellent last night, as they should have been. Forcing 20 turnovers in the first half including 8 steals, even a slow start couldn’t stop them from steamrolling by the time the third quarter rolled around. Everything fell in place, no more injuries occurred, and the Pacers walked away with another win.

The Good
Start with Paul George. Despite starting the game 2-8 from the floor, George finished with 34 points on 13-24 shooting and 5-10 from 3pt range. He was licensed to kill last night and took some ankles with him.

https://twitter.com/Pacers/status/667169599931195392

The Blue & Gold managed to force 29 turnovers in total, up from 20 in the first half alone, and a season-high 18 steals as well. This inevitably led to a massive margin in fast break points, where the Pacers capitalized and outscored the hosts, 33-12.

There really wasn’t a lot to be down on. The team shot the ball well from inside and outside the arc, as well as from the line, and made their opposition look silly at times. It’s another road win that will be followed by a well-deserved rest.

The Bad
Philadelphia managed to shoot 46% from the floor and outscored Indiana in the paint, 50-40, and that might be all the stats show in favor of the 76ers.

One player who deserves special mention, though, is Jahlil Okafor. I was high on him going into the game but hadn’t seen him play all year. He was remarkable. Okafor has a unique skill set offensively and might be the most coveted center in the game in five years though Karl-Anthony Towns might have something to say about that. Seriously, though, congrats to Philly on selecting Okafor and giving him big minutes. He’s a future star.

Next: Hammons returns, Boilers smash Cardinals

Game Notes

• Paul George led all scorers with 34 points and 8 rebounds
• The Pacers allowed the 76ers to lead the game just twice
• Indiana won the rebounding battle, 48-43
• George Hill (Upper Respiratory Infection) and Rodney Stuckey (ankle) did not feature

The Pacers have a couple of days off but will play hosts to the Milwaukee Bucks Saturday night, game time set for 7 pm ET.