INDIANAPOLIS

In a disappointing showing in their first preseason home game for the 2024-25 season, the Indiana Pacers fell to the Memphis Grizzlies with a score of 120-116. The loss dropped the Pacers to 1-2 in preseason play, and the absence of their star players exacerbated the situation.

Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle was understandably frustrated with the team’s performance, especially since they fell behind early, digging themselves into a hole from which they couldn’t fully recover. Carlisle expressed a pressing need for improvement: "We have a lot of work to do," he said, lamenting the scheduled day off following the loss.

Here are five critical observations from the game, highlighting what went wrong for the Pacers and acknowledging the Grizzlies' strengths as Indiana prepares for their final preseason matchup against Charlotte.

1. A Lackluster Starting Unit

Due to rest considerations, the Pacers were without key figures such as All-Stars Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, as well as veteran T.J. McConnell. With Aaron Nesmith also sidelined due to ankle soreness, the team fielded a significantly altered starting lineup. Despite opportunities for players like Bennedict Mathurin and Jarace Walker, who sought to make their mark, the Pacers stumbled out of the gate, trailing 11-0 before finally scoring.

The performance of the starting unit left Carlisle disheartened. “The first quarter was very poor,” he noted, pointing out the physicality of the Grizzlies' playstyle and the Pacers' inability to match it early on.

2. Zach Edey’s Impressive Display

One standout from the game was Zach Edey, the towering 7-foot-4 center who showcased his skills with a dominant 23-point performance. Carlisle had anticipated the challenge Edey would present, and it became evident as Edey exploited the Pacers’ defense, converting 10 of 15 shots, all from within the paint. Despite concerns regarding Edey's adjustment to the NBA's quicker pace, his efficient play suggests he could be a significant presence in the league.

“History will likely show that where he was chosen in the draft was low,” Carlisle remarked, emphasizing Edey's potential impact on the game.

3. Defensive Deficiencies Persist

The Pacers’ defensive woes continued to rear their head throughout the game, reflecting a broader trend in this preseason. The team allowed their opponents to shoot over 50% from the field, while consistently falling short in preventing points in the paint. Carlisle hasn't been satisfied with the team's ball pressure or defensive cohesion, indicating that a strategic overhaul may be necessary if they hope to improve before the regular season begins.

“Our zone was very effective in this game, but our man-to-man was not,” Carlisle added, underlining the need for defensive adjustments.

4. Ben Sheppard’s Emergent Role

Despite the struggles of some younger players, rookie Ben Sheppard seized the opportunity to shine. He offered a much-needed spark with 12 points on efficient shooting, five assists, and an impressive defensive presence. His ability to handle the ball effectively underscored his readiness for regular-season action. With Walker's higher potential, Sheppard's reliability could make key decisions regarding roster spots difficult for the coaching staff.

5. Cole Swider Establishes Himself

In the competition for the final roster spot, Cole Swider stood out with a solid performance. Playing 22 minutes, Swider scored 10 points, hitting two three-pointers while contributing across the board with five rebounds and three assists. Swider's shooting ability, particularly from beyond the arc, provided a dimension that could help his team in crucial moments this season.

With Swider finding his rhythm, it may prove challenging for Kendall Brown to surpass him for that last spot on the roster, especially with Brown’s limited impact in the game.

As the Pacers head into their final preseason game against Charlotte, these observations serve as critical insights into the team’s current struggles and the potential path forward. It’s clear that improvements must be made in energy levels, defensive cohesiveness, and confidence among younger players if they aim to compete effectively in the upcoming season. The time for sharpening skills and strategizing is now — can the Pacers turn things around in their final preseason showdown?