Q&A with Indy Cornrows

A rematch between the Pacers and Suns will take place Wednesday, this time in Phoenix.  Last time the two teams met in October, I think we can all agree that Amare had pretty good game…

To preview the game and give us insight on all things Pacers, I was lucky enough to speak with Tom of the fantastic Indiana Pacers fan blog, Indy Cornrows.  In this Q&A, Tom (Indy Cornrows) updates us on the status of Mike Dunleavy, talks about the progress of Danny Granger, and fills us in on the consensus of head coach Jim O’Brien.

For my responses to Tom’s questions, click here. 

Ben:  Anytime the Pacers are talked about, one has to bring up Danny Granger and his phenomenal play this year.  Talk about his progress and role on the team.

Indy Cornrows:  Granger has indeed been phenomenal this year, really stepping up his offensive game and taking on the lead dog role with Mike Dunleavy sidelined. He’s also shown some development from the start of the year. His scoring has been great all year, but recently he’s shown more game with his ability to finish in the lane, get to the line and score late in tight games. He still has room to grow defensively and needs to become a little more fierce. By that, I mean demanding the ball at times and challenging teammates, holding them accountable for mistakes.
 
Ben:   Mike Dunleavy update - after missing the entire season thus far with a knee injury, will we see him back in action soon?

Indy Cornrows:  Favorable reports have Dunleavy suiting up at some point during the current road trip. I don’t imagine he’ll jump right into the fray and play heavy minutes, but even 15-20 minutes off the bench would be a nice boost.
 
Ben:  Marquis Daniels is quietly averaging 15 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and a steal while shooting 46% from the floor.  Does he have a future in Indiana?

Indy Cornrows:  Quisy has been incredible this year and really stepped up his game in Dun’s absence. The Pacers would love to hang on the Daniels because he is so versatile as a starter or off the bench but his value has risen this year so whether or not he returns depends on what salary the market sets for him. 
 
Ben:  What are Pacers fans saying about coach Jim O’Brien?  Happy, give it time, or get out?

Indy Cornrows:  All of the above. JOB’s style of play is fun to watch but can be maddening when the Pacers are trying to hold onto a lead. In general, though, JOB changed the atmosphere and expectations in the locker room last year and was dealt seven new faces this year. Plus, when you add up all of the games missed by key players this year it is hard to hold him directly responsible for all of the losses. The team has played incredibly hard all year, beat the Lakers and Celtics, but just struggles to complete games.
 
Ben:  The Pacers have lost a lot of close games this year that could’ve gone either way.  In your estimation, does Indiana have enough to make a run for the 8th seed?

Indy Cornrows:  The Pacers remain within a few games of a playoff spot and could certainly make a run at it but they’re going to have to play better than .500 ball the rest of the way and that will be tough. They’ve dug a pretty big hole to get out of and will need help from a few other team dropping back to have a realistic chance.

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