After missing the first 28 games of the season with a knee contusion, an admittedly unconditioned George Hill returned for the Pacers off the bench to lead the team with 15 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists on 5-8 shooting in just 21 minutes. Most importantly, the Pacers managed to produce a solid win over a solid team, downing the Anthony Davis-led New Orleans Pelicans 96-84.
Hill’s return appeared to rejuvenate the team (10-19), which put together its first winning streak since Nov. 19. David West held his own against Davis (21 and 9), putting up a solid 13, 7, 5, 2 and 2 stat line on just 8 shots. Roy Hibbert had 14 points on 10 shots and swatted away 7 attempts, while Solomon Hill had 13, CJ Miles had 11 and CJ Watson had 10.
Hill reportedly had a fantastic offseason in which he worked his tail off to prove everything wrong, and was set for a breakout year of sorts before the injury woes hit. It’s just one game, but it’s a good start, as the Pacers appear to look more coordinated with their floor leader back in the mix and getting the ball to guys where they prefer it.
Next up, the Pacers head on the road to Detroit, which recently dumped Josh Smith for nothing. It’s not going to be an easy game, but it’s a game the Pacers can realistically win.
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