Indiana Pacers combo guard Tyreke Evans admits this season has been a “roller-coaster” for him.
Evans signed a one-year, $12.4 million free agent deal with the Pacers last summer.
The former Rookie of the Year has always been a ball-dominant, score-first player throughout his career. Pacers head coach Nate McMillan, however, has played him in a different role and it's been tough for Evans to balance it.
“It’s been a roller-coaster for me this season,” Evans told J. Michael of Indy Star. “This is a different role for me here. Coach wants me to be aggressive but try to play the game the right way. Find guys. My mindset every game is try to do that and still try to play my game. We’re a better team when I come in and break guys down off the dribble and create, so I’m going to try to stay focused for the rest of the season and try to play that way.
“I’m not going to lie, it’s probably one of the toughest seasons I’ve ever had.”
Evans recently returned to the Pacers after being away for personal reasons. He was suspended for one game earlier this season after being late to a practice.
In 60 games for the Pacers, Evans is averaging 9.9 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.4 assists while shooting 38.7 percent from the field and 34.2 percent from the 3-point line.