NBA Notes: Pacers, Pascal Siakam, Kings, Russell Westbrook, Mavericks
Pacers and Pascal Siakam
Pacers forward Pascal Siakam remains optimistic despite a surge of injuries. "It’s almost laughable," Siakam said, via Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star. "As bad as it’s getting, I know there’s going to be another side of it."
The team is currently a patchwork lineup. Aaron Nesmith is attempting five more shots per game than previously, while rookie Jarace Walker’s attempts have increased from 4.8 to 12.6 this season. Coach Rick Carlisle describes this adjustment as a sign of survival:
“We have a lot of guys playing unusual positions. But the spirit is good.”
The Pacers stand at 1-6, clearly scrambling to find their footing. It’s worth noting they started last season 11-15 before advancing to Game 7 of the NBA Finals.
Russell Westbrook and the Denver Nuggets
Russell Westbrook returned to Denver with a strong performance—26 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists—but the Nuggets lost 130-124. Westbrook was blunt about his experience with the team:
“They didn’t want me back.”
Westbrook signed a minimum contract with Denver last summer and played 75 regular-season games and multiple playoff series minutes. However, when his player option became available, he said the team essentially told him not to exercise it.
Summary
Despite injuries and adversity, the Pacers rely on adaptability and resilience, while Westbrook’s candid remarks highlight his complicated departure from the Nuggets.