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ESPN predicts Indiana Pacers to improve significantly this season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 27, 2026, 4:45 PM

Last updated Aug 27, 2026

ESPN predicts Indiana Pacers to improve significantly this season

Summary

The Indiana Pacers, one of the NBA's weakest teams last year, are expected to make substantial gains in the upcoming season. ESPN experts have voted the Pacers as top contenders for the biggest improvement, alongside the Utah Jazz. The team, which finished with 19 wins last season, hopes to capitalize on the return of key player Tyrese Haliburton and the addition of center Ivica Zubac. A healthy roster is seen as crucial for their playoff aspirations. Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle is also recognized as a frontrunner for Coach of the Year, projecting optimism for the Eastern Conference.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Pacers finished with the second-worst NBA record last season.
•Experts predict significant improvement due to player returns and acquisitions.
•Tyrese Haliburton is expected to regain full health and impact playmaking.
•Ivica Zubac is added to strengthen the center position.
•Rick Carlisle is noted as a potential Coach of the Year candidate.

Latest Updates

4:45 PMYahoo Sports — Pacers Predicted to Take Massive Leap by ESPN Experts

What they're saying

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The Indiana Pacers were one of the worst teams in the NBA a year ago. This season, they are predicted to take a massive leap. The post Pacers Predicted to Take Massive Leap by ESPN Experts appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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