NBA Notes: Pacers, Pascal Siakam, Kings, Russell Westbrook, Mavericks
Pacers and Pascal Siakam
Pacers forward Pascal Siakam remains optimistic despite the overwhelming injury problems on the team. “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.”
Indiana currently looks like a patchwork team. Aaron Nesmith has increased his shot attempts by five per game, while Jarace Walker’s attempts have jumped from 4.8 as a rookie to 12.6 this season. Coach Rick Carlisle described this adjustment as necessary for survival.
“We have a lot of guys playing unusual positions,” Carlisle said. “But the spirit is good.”
The Pacers hold a 1-6 record but are clearly working hard to manage the situation. Notably, they started last season 11-15 before reaching Game 7 of the NBA Finals.
Russell Westbrook and the Nuggets
Russell Westbrook returned to Denver with a strong individual performance, delivering 26 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, but the Nuggets still lost 130–124. Westbrook was candid about his experience with the team.
“They didn’t want me back,” Westbrook said.
Last summer, Westbrook signed a minimum contract with Denver and played 75 regular-season games, including minutes in several playoff series. However, when it came time to decide on his player option, he claims the Nuggets essentially discouraged him from exercising it.
Summary
The Pacers are adapting to injury challenges with resilience, while Westbrook openly shares his difficult situation with the Nuggets amid roster changes.