Indianapolis – On Oct. 21, Pacers post‑game host Eddie White joined Hammer and Nigel on 93.1 WIBC to preview the team’s first regular‑season game in New Orleans. Coming off what he called the “worst season the team ever had,” White emphasized that the organization is focused on what lies ahead, not on past disappointment.
Zero Anxiety About Haliburton’s Return
When asked whether fans should feel any anxiety about Tyrese Haliburton’s return, White pointed to the limited minutes the point guard logged with the starters during preseason. “There is zero anxiety,” he said. “It’s all about anticipation.” The former All‑Star guard entered the season opener against the New Orleans Pelicans and posted 23 points and 12 assists, marking his first regular‑season game in 16 months.
Team Outlook and Health Emphasis
White described a “quiet, sincere sense of positivity” inside the organization. He noted that the Pacers are comfortable letting national voices overlook them and prefer to fly under the radar, much as they did two years ago. “If we stay healthy, this team is going to be very, very, very good, and it could be magical once again,” he said.
Patience for New Pieces
Addressing the potential adjustment period for Haliburton and new center Ivica Zubac, White reminded listeners that the squad that reached Game 7 of the 2024 NBA Finals also struggled early in that campaign. “I think if fans are patient, there’s going to be a big payoff at the end,” he said.
Top‑Tier Aspirations
White believes that, health permitting, the Pacers could finish the season as “one of the top teams, if not maybe the top team in the Eastern Conference.” He highlighted the home opener at Gainbridge Fieldhouse as a “gold out,” urging fans to secure tickets via Pacers.com.
Looking Ahead
The Pacers’ schedule remains packed with challenging matchups, and White expects the team’s defensive intensity and offensive flow to improve as chemistry develops. He also praised head coach Rick Carlisle’s confidence in Zubac’s screening ability, noting that the center’s presence should open up additional scoring options for Haliburton and the rest of the roster.
For fans eager to follow the season, White recommended keeping an eye on the team’s health reports and staying engaged with the Pacers’ official channels for the latest updates.
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.
