The Indiana Pacers erected an insane first quarter lead against the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday night. The opening 12 minutes ended with a 37-16 score. The 21-point lead was their highest since 2008 — even with the presence of All-Star Paul George in the lineup.
This trend marks the 14th time in franchise history that the Pacers have led by more than 20 points in the first quarter. Prior to the game, the Pacers are 13-2 over the last two seasons when leading by more than 10 points entering the second quarter.
The Pacers have surprised the entire NBA by competing at a high level, even after the trade of then-franchise star George to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Victor Oladipo has stepped up as the Pacers' leading scorer, and the team currently owns the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference with a 20-19 record. Oladipo is currently averaging 24.8 points, 4.1 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game, while shooting a scorching 42 percent from deep.
Against the Bulls on Saturday, Oladipo came back from an injury as the Pacers dominated Chicago. Head coach Nate McMillan reiterated his caution on playing his star shooting guard, while complementing his 23-point performance, according to NBA.com.
“You're always are a little concerned when guys are coming back off an injury. You know we wanted to be cautious with him, as far as his minutes, and we're watching him closely out there. He and I talked about just allowing the game to come to him, have fun, don't put pressure on yourself, and he did. I thought he came out and was relaxed.”
The Pacers now have Oladipo back in the lineup and they appear to be ready to compete for a postseason run. That should scare the team's competition in a battle for the East's lower playoff spots.
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