Subject: Games will reveal who really improved most

Hope springs eternal in the preseason before any games are played. The Pacers management and this Website have certainly done a great job of generating optimism for the team given the recent upheavals, bad-looking trade, roster heavy with overpaid players, disastrous finish, firing of the controversial coach, lack of a No. 1 pick that all their rival lottery teams have, blockbuster trades by rival teams like the Celtics, assumptions in the media that the Lakers would pluck O’Neal for a run with Kobe for greatness, and a fall from championship contender before the brawl, to a team from which the media will expect nothing but a lottery pick. Still, games are played on the court not in preseason media predictions. A calm offseason is a plus for the Pacers for the first time in years. Injured players have supposedly gotten healthy. Even without a No. 1, the Pacers are mostly a young team, needing young guys to develop and fit together as a team. Some probably will. The new coach has made a reasonably good impression. The Pacers did not hand O’Neal to the Lakers, so they have one All-Star to build around. They picked up a couple of role-players who might help. Other teams do not necessarily look so great once the media fever subsided. Will the Celtics go as far as Rajan Rondo can carry them? Will Washington, New Jersey, Miami and Detroit be better or worse? Who will get hurt and who will stay healthy? Can this team hustle and be competitive, and take advantage of what talent there is? That’s why we have a season.

Subject: Looking forward to a classy season

Thank goodness the season is just around the corner. I live in the equivalent of professional basketball Siberia (West Virginia) and one can only glean so much information from the national and Internet media about the Pacers. I check Pacers.com and Indystar.com every day for bits and pieces of “news” about my hometown team. I’ve been a Pacer fan since my mom’s friend who worked at WTTV took me to see my first game at the Fairgrounds Coliseum back in 1970 … or was it before? I am appalled by the fair-weathered fans that come and go with the win-loss tally. While I can’t say that the past three years have been a joy to follow, given the incredibly knuckleheaded activities by some of the current and former rosters on and off the court -- or is that in and out of court? -- but I look forward to a team that will hopefully play “the right way” and conduct themselves with class, dignity and professionalism. Given the obscene amount of money being made by these folks, I don’t think it is too much to ask regardless what their socio-economic backgrounds or childhoods may have been.

Subject: Time for Harrison to tap potential

I am glad to see that David Harrison is confident for this year. However, I think he had a lot of nerve with the tone of his comments regarding the Pacers' need and search for another big man. He said that if the Pacers don't think he is the big man they need, then they need to let him go. Well, I think a dependable big man is the need that the Pacers are actually trying to address. Obviously, we would not be looking for another big man if he would contribute something besides personal fouls and bench-warming to the team effort. ... To David Harrison, I say I am looking forward to a breakout season from you this year, mister. You have the ability to score, rebound and swat several shots away, so I don't want to hear it. Otherwise, you may be right -- it may be time to get another big man and let you go.

Subject: New season should bring new optimism

I sense good vibes from some fans. It all starts here with us! Let's make Conseco a feared place this year! Get behind your team let's go!

Listen, all the negative players with the exception of Jamaal Tinsley are all gone so I say we give the Pacers a chance. The Pacers have always found a way to get rid of negative players.

Subject: Enough with the negativity already

Enough with the negativity already!! The last couple of years have been tough, but the new direction is what it's about now. I like what I see from the front office and the coach. Did I read someone question J.O.'s fundamentals? Are you kidding me? I expect this team to be very tough to beat at home this year. Winning on the road will be hard, but it always is in the NBA. The fans who go to the games are going to see some good wins. Looking forward to a lot of progress this season.

The Pacers need fans! This team needs confidence and to achieve that the players need support from their fans. The players and especially the fans have to honor those who made the Pacers great. It's all about the present, but the past should not be forgotten. I know it is difficult to discuss different cultures, but here in Brazil we have the soccer fanatism. It doesn't matter if the team is not going so well on the field. The true fans are always there. Those who are paying for tickets have the right to complain, but just after the game not before. It doesn't matter if it is against the Spurs or against the Trail Blazers. If I could, I would be in every single home game. Conseco is our house, let's fill it.

Subject: All we are saying is give P's a chance

I'm sick of all the complaining about our team. I'll be the first to admit that the Pacers aren't perfect, but what team is? Even the Spurs or the Suns or the Mavericks aren't perfect. The Pacers don't need perfection, they need heart, and they have that right now. They have heart, they have youth, they have talent and desire they're really only lacking one thing right now. The only thing the Pacers are lacking is fans! That's right, at the moment it's not the Pacers we should be complaining about, we should be complaining about the fans. The Pacers are going to make mistakes, I hate the mistakes as much as anyone but we've got to move on. We have to remain loyal. I've been a Pacers fan for as long as I can remember. I've never quit on them, not after Reggie retired, not after the brawl, not after the trade this past year, never. The Pacers need help, not in the form of a Kobe Bryant of Tim Duncan, but in the form of true fans!

I went to a game in Boston several years ago to watch the Pacers play the Celtics. We won that game but I could not enjoy the victory because I was disgusted by the way the home fans had treated their team. I even got into a minor argument with a Celtic fan seated behind me. I was convinced that the Pacers would never be treated that way by their hometown fans. He said that was easy for me to say because we had a good team. I said it wouldn't matter if we lost every game, we would not treat our players that way. I am embarrassed and disillusioned to find myself proven wrong. Everybody makes mistakes. For all of you who put conditions on your loyalty, I say good riddance. I for one am looking forward to seeing what a team that is looking fundamentally sound at each position can accomplish in a sport that has forgotten the meaning of teamwork and I support this organization and this team no matter what.

I'm excited about this year's squad! When you look at the combinations we can throw at other teams we have some great second- and third-quarter matchups. Whatever the starting five is, it's bound to change throughout the season. The old saying is it's not who starts but who finishes, I say it's the second and third quarters. Do we have a Kobe or Lebron? Of course not, but what we do have is depth. This franchise has had so many injuries the last couple seasons it's given the management the opportunity to weed and feed. Let the garden grow!

At this point the roster is set. The players on the team now will be the ones we will have until the trade deadline. At this point Donnie and Larry's only hope is that this roster can win enough games to keep Conseco from being completely empty. The big trade will happen at the trading deadline. O'Neal has already said that he is opting out of his contract next season. To get any value he has to be traded this season. Halfway through the season other teams will see how their offseason moves have panned out. At that point, teams will see if they need to make a trade to get over the hump or just go in a completely new direction. The market for O'Neal should be much higher then than it is now. As much as Pacers fans want to see a move made by the franchise to try to get better it is not going to happen until other teams are looking to trade. The trade market is pretty bleak this time of season. Right now we are stuck with who we have but rest assured that the roster will look substantially different after the trade deadline. It has to because if it doesn't the only people that will be in the stands will be the vendors.

Subject: Analyzing the keys to the roster's makeup

Let’s look at the point. Penetration: Tinsley pokes and probes, Daniels twists and slithers. Passing: Both can dish in the lane. Fast break: Tinsley can push more on the open floor. Dribbling: Tinsley – but who wants a lot of dribbling? Finishing: Daniels, hands down. Defense: Daniels by a wide mile. Shooting: Neither one can shoot. Attitude, example, leadership and intangibles: It’s subjective, but I’ll take Daniels. Now center: Want field goal percentage? Add dunks. This isn’t Foster’s forte. We need 15 ppg at the 60+ percent shooting that comes from slamming home garbage shots, putbacks, mismatch isolations, and defensive breakdowns. Secondly, if we can get J.O. facing the basket, using his mobility to get to the rim, we’ll add a new dimension to our inside game and add five years to his career. For that we need a back-to-the-basket wide body: Harrison / Diogu.

At first, I thought the moves that were made this offseason were bad moves. However, I now see that Larry Bird and Donnie Walsh are actually trying to make the Pacers better by being patient. I like the shooting ability of Kareem Rush and Travis Diener as well as the versatility of Stephen Graham and Andre Owens. I still think that the Pacers will not have enough to make it all the way to the playoffs, but I believe that every player will give it their all. As I said earlier the Pacers are being patient. I think the Pacers are going to try and make a big move during the 2008 offseason. If I know Larry Bird and Donnie Walsh like I think I do, they have been listening to the fans. I think that no one will be disappointed next season and the Fieldhouse will be packed once again. And to the Pacers organization, good luck in the 2008 offseason.

With most good teams in the NBA, they have what you would call a "Big Three." In regard to the Pacers, they have a team of players. I believe Tinsley and Granger are above-average players -- and, of course, O'Neal -- but fall short of what you would consider a "Big Three." The Pacers are dependent on having a team concept where they need multiple players to contribute to their success. We feel good about O'Neal's talent level, a healthy Tinsley and Daniels would be wonderful, Granger is getting better, Dunleavy is questionable, great skill set, great I.Q., not quite the lottery pick he should be, yet. At Duke he did it all, similar to the player he is now, maybe less explosive, but still very key to our team. If management can get his confidence up and make him understand his importance, I believe we'll see a difference in his game, that is key in seeing a difference in our team.

When this team was winning in the ‘90s by playing the "right way," all these "fans" whined about not having that true superstar because the Pacers were too cheap to spend the money. Then the Pacers spend the money and what do we have? Bringing up the antics of the players is simply an excuse or these fans never really followed basketball in the first place. The fact of the matter is that in Indiana everyone likes to talk about how much they love basketball, but, in reality, most fans know very little about the game, except which team won or lost. Pacers fans have got to be among the worst fair-weather fans in the NBA. I truly did not know that over 99 percent of the Indiana population was perfect (the difference being the criminals that play for the Pacers). Up until recently, and with the exception of the brawl (which had way more to do with the officials, Ben Wallace, and the out-of-control fans than with Artest and the Pacers -- face it and get past it), any NBA team would have laughed off every incident that these "fans" keep crying about. If you do not like watching the NBA, fine don’t watch it, but quit using this same, sorry excuse. Look at this way: if it wasn’t for Artest, Tinsley, and Jackson, the rest of the country would never have realized that the rest of the Indiana population is, in fact, perfect.

Well, I feel better about the Pacers now. At least Isiah is not here!

Subject: Give Dunleavy more than half a chance

People keep saying Dunleavy is slow yet, at the end of last season whenever there was a fast break on, I think the majority of the time it was Mike who was leading the break. He is sound in his fundamentals, can shoot the three and handles the ball pretty well. It seems to me that fans just look for something to be negative about instead of giving a player a chance. Come on folks, the man has only been here for less than half a season. Give him a chance to learn his teammates, let him get at least one camp under his belt then if he does not produce feel free to chastise him. Otherwise, give the guy a chance!

I think the Pacers could use a guy like Mike Dunleavy. He is a smart player who plays a fundamentally sound game. He has had some trouble in the past shooting, but he will be the first one to admit to that. A lot of NBA fans don’t like him because he is not a walking highlight reel! The reason he came off the bench for the Warriors was because he didn't fit into Don Nelson’s system. Nelson doesn’t really adjust well to players that don’t fit into his system. Dunleavy is a great guy to have in an organization. He doesn’t get into any off-court trouble and is a team player. The way things are in the NBA these days, it is hard to find a player that isn’t selfish and only looking out for themselves! Dunleavy is a really good player. His main problem is his confidence. Sometimes he hesitates or over-thinks a play. I am looking forward to this season because I think the fresh start will be good for Mike.

Subject: Lineup needs Dunleavy's fundamentals

There have been many complaints over the last few years indicating that Indiana fans feel that the Pacers don't play Indiana basketball. Yet, a guy like Mike Dunleavy gets no respect. He has the fundamentals that are so sorely lacking on this team. I think that a lack of fundamentals is the primary problem with the recent Pacers teams. Dunleavy should start because he, along with Granger, strive to play the game the way Indiana fans claim they want to see it played. Also, it would help if the leader of the team would become more fundamentally sound, or step down and support an emerging, fundamentally sound leader.

I do not understand some Pacers fans' obsession with Mike Dunleavy. He was benched by his previous team for being slow and unable to defend. After being traded the same held true but his shooting percentage went down. Why all the love for a player that, if he had a different last name would not even be in the league? He is slow, a very poor defender and by the end of last season appeared to have lost all confidence in his shot. With his lack of footspeed he is not capable of putting the ball on the floor like Michael in Houston would have you believe. If he tried that he would have more turnovers than points. Mike Dunleavy has an excellent understanding of the game and how it is to be played and would probably make a great coach. However, he lacks the physical tools necessary to be anything more than a backup. Anybody that believes he can be more has just never really watched him play objectively.

As far as a lineup goes with the set of players we currently have, I am going to have to disagree with some of the suggested lineups. I think Dunleavy is entirely too slow to be at the two spot. He is a good spark off of the bench for the three and could be figured into some interesting lineups featuring three forwards. I think the two spot should be between Daniels and Rush. I think Foster absolutely deserves the starting center spot. He may not score in bundles, but his hustle, grit and determination are invaluable.

Jamaal Tinsley should be the starting point guard. Period. He has put in the time and effort, and has always done whatever has been asked of him. In the suspension year along with Fred Jones and Jeff Foster, Tinsley held the team together, becoming a primary scoring option and was a regular on the highlight reels. When people questioned his toughness, he tried to go a full season without missing a game, and only falling short after it was apparent the season was a wash. When our offense became the predictable, "dump it into JO, stand outside and wait for the three," he did that, too. He's done everything asked of him on the court, and done it well. Now we should let him do what he's always wanted to do, be a pass-first point guard in an up-tempo, motion offense. He's been in a restrictive set offense for much of his career, and now he has the opportunity to show what he can really do. While I love the potential on our team, right now Tinsley is still the best player on the team besides O'Neal. Give him the ball and the freedom to call plays, and turn him loose. We won't regret it.

Subject: Daniels needs to play point guard

I hope this is not the case, but am I the only one who understands that Daniels can and should play at the point for this team? The ability, quickness, skill and determination that he showed in Dallas should be more than enough. Dunleavy is a guy that should at best be coming off the bench not starting for a struggling team, we need to see Rush in his spot. Danny Granger is a guy that is more than deserving of a starting position this year. Danny put in a lot of work this past year to prove himself and has been doing the same in the offseason. Bird wants young: this is the guy we need to start with. I don’t feel as if we even need to question the six-time All-Star O’Neal, and starting him with a clean bill of health this year is at minimum priceless. And last but not least, I feel as if Ike and Harrison need to share the final position until one of them shows a sure sign of determination and want for that spot.

I agree with Paul in Medford, Ore. I'm not a huge Mike Dunleavy fan, and if we give the Pacers a chance then they can show us that hopefully under Jim O'Brien they will have a better and faster offense.

Subject: Much debate on shooting guard, center starters

To start the season I’d use the lineup we finished with. They will be most effective out of the gate. But I would like to see a quick transition to our most effective long-term solution. Starters/first substitution: 1: Daniels/Tinsley, 2: Dunleavy/Rush, 3: Granger/Williams, 4: O’Neal/Murphy, 5: Harrison/Diogu. The biggest adjustment will be at the bookends, 1 and 5, but these are the keys, our most under-utilized potential. We need to get our big man Harrison under the basket. Also remember, Diogu has a 6-11 frame from tip toe to fingertip. I see more in Dunleavy’s game than most. He was in a transition where his shots weren’t falling. When the coaching and confidence pick up, I see him as a more skilled Rip Hamilton. I love Foster’s hustle and scrap as much as anyone, but we need to get our more production out of the low post. I see him as a sub getting lots of spot minutes.

I agree with Mark from Montana on four of the five starting positions. I would replace Kareem Rush with Marquis Daniels at shooting guard. And I think that Mike Dunleavy and Granger are interchangeable at small forward, depending on who's on a streak. Hopefully David Harrison can stay healthy and come into his own to provide some offense from the five spot, something the Pacers haven't had since Rik Smits (except for a cameo from Brad Miller). The possibility of Murphy and O'Neal starting up front is intriguing from a scoring standpoint, but the lack of size would expose O'Neal to unnecessary wear over an 82-game season. My Starting 5: Jamaal Tinsley, Marquis Daniels, Danny Granger, Jermaine O'Neal, Jeff Foster.

I will probably be the first to say that I'm not a huge Mike Dunleavy fan. Immediately after the trade he started to play very well. This is because the offense was moving and rarely did we see players standing around waiting for the ball to come to them. Later on in the season the offense died and so did Mike's productivity. This season, we have a new coach that will keep things flowing. All this can do for Mike's game is give it room to improve. I say that we should give him another shot at the starting job.

Subject: Lineup possibilities intriguing

I think the best starting five would look like this:
PG, Jamaal Tinsley: He's a veteran and knows the Pacers system. Many complaints are being quickly thrown in his direction but I believe that he is a great point guard and can make plays, doesn't try and score too much and is really actually a solid player. His decision-making is sometimes poor but he was one of the more consistent players last year.
SG, Kareem Rush: Rush is the best outside shooter on the team now, his ability to stretch and defense and hit the outside shot will help open up Jermaine, Foster, Ike and even sometimes Granger in the post. This alone is a good enough reason to start him. He's a team player and doesn't try to do too much, plus if he gets hot, watch out.
SF, Danny Granger: Is there any competition? Possibly the second-best player on the team, Granger can do it all and he's still young. He can post and shoot threes, he can rebound and play good defense.
PF, Jermaine O'Neal: J.O. prefers to play the four spot as opposed to center, he scores better and his talents are put to full capabilities in this spot. He's got a good shot for being big so he can play outside or take it to the hoop down low. On defense he can be switched on and off centers and power forwards depending, or can help from the weak side and block shots.
C, Jeff Foster: Foster is a workhorse, what can I say? He works as hard as anyone, hustles for rebounds, plays hard defense and knows the Pacers. Although maybe not as talented as say Troy Murphy or Ike, Foster brings the intangibles to the team, things not many players do anymore. Bench: I believe Daniels can come off and play the one, two or even three spots, he brings energy and great slashing ability. When healthy, I think he can compete for Sixth Man of the Year award. Dunleavy and Diogu will bring solid play into the second rotation along with Murphy. It would be one of the better benches in the NBA. I am really excited about this team whoever we start!

I read the remarks from Eric in Kokomo and Kyle from Anderson and they say to pull out Murphy, Dunleavy and Foster as starters. We were already the worst field goal shooting team in the league last year, do you want us to be among the worst in rebounding too? I agree that both Murphy and Dunleavy struggled last year but I am a fan that pays attention to matchups. If they would both put the ball on the floor and go to the cup strong they can create a lot of easy weakside baskets for Jermaine or even open up the outside for Rush and Granger. Murphy and Dunleavy both have the potential to be double-double guys in points and rebounding as does Ike, but what concerns me about Diogu is size and lack of body control.

I think our starting lineup should be Diener, Daniels, Granger, O'Neal and Foster. Diener is a good player and a consistent shooter, so I think he should get a chance as a point guard. But we still need a good center.

Subject: Fans weary of off-court incidents

Regardless of the seriousness of the offense in the criminal sense, Shawne Williams' arrest is a capital offense in the judgment sense. It is impossible for us to ask the Pacers to show maturity and judgement on the court when they cannot manage even the most basic aspects of their own lives off of it.

I would rather have a mediocre team or worse with a group of hard-working, respectable young men than to constantly turn on the news and hear about another Indiana Pacers player arrested. It has gotten way past old.

I am disheartened to say that I feel like the greatness of the Pacers organization will always be in the past. Gone are all of the players and morals we have all grown to love and admire in this great community. Instead, a good majority of the team has now resorted to breaking the law to cure their boredom. My compliments to the players that continually conduct themselves in a professional manner! For all of the Pacers who are in obvious need of mentoring, take notes from them. They are the ones that will lead the team success on and off the court.

Unbelievable, how could this happen again? This is why nobody ever wants to go to Pacers games, because there are players like Jamaal Tinsley who don't care about messing up their reputations. I hope the Pacers can fix this problem with Shawne Williams.

At this point we do not even know the facts. Let's not jump to conclusions. Let's all allow Mr. Williams the same presumption of innocence that our Constitution requires. And quit crying. I have and will always support my hometown team, regardless of the actions of the individual players off the court. Dislike a player if you want, but support the Pacers or simply root for another team. This will be the best year in the past three or four...you will see.

It seems to me that for the amount of money that these players are contracted to play for; they should be reminded that their participation with the Pacers franchise is in fact a privilege and not just a paycheck. They should also be reminded that their contractual obligations should extend well beyond not only their talent on the basketball court, but also must reflect an image that the fans can respect and can be proud of.

I am yet another of those long-time Pacer fans who used to go to at least five games a year. I was never free enough (or rich enough) to get season tickets. Last year, due to the numerous off-court problems with the Pacers, I didn’t go to a single game. I watched a few on television. Unless Larry Bird starts showing some willingness to make the hard decisions necessary to make this a respectable team again, I won’t be watching any of the games on television this year, either. It’s time to start enforcing a zero-tolerance policy on garbage like this.

Shawne is a young player that I thought was heading down the right track with his play last season. That all changed when this story came out; it was not just another Indiana Pacer in the news for the wrong reasons, but it was a promising young talent that now has to be dealt with and punished for his actions.

Subject: Williams incident sparks strong reaction

We as fans were asked just last week what it would take to get us back in to watch the games. Well, this type of stuff has to stop. ... It's a shame because there are some really great players who have done wonderful things for the game and the community they live in but there are some every year who go out and give all of them a really bad name. Until they are weeded out and gotten rid of, this will never get any better and we fans will not be coming in great numbers back to the games until they clean it up.

I cannot believe this has happened again. What happened to the Pacers? I used to love watching Reggie, Rik, the Davis', and Mark Jackson play for this team with the heart and determination that we fans deserve. It's no wonder we have not and will not be making the playoffs anytime soon, our players have nothing better to do then go to strip clubs and hang out with their buddies till all hours of the morning, driving around smoking dope. Are you kidding me?

Yet again we have another Pacer in the news for all the wrong reasons. But why should we be surprised that a young player on this roster would make bad decisions given the veterans in the locker room? ... If (Larry Bird) does not get tough on Williams he will lose what little credibility he has left. The real test will be to see if he really does anything substantial or just talks tough and hands out a light punishment. All anyone can say is, "here we go again.." The only real question to ask is "Is anybody really surprised?".

Over the years I have taken pride in being a fan of the Indiana Pacers. I thought it was wonderful when we were one of the few teams from the ABA taken into the NBA. We had not only great players, but gentlemen as well. Yes, they had some off-court issues, but nothing that caused embarrassment to the team in general or to the people of Indianapolis. Now you give us young men who are one step away from playing in some state penal league. ... Do all the Pacer players carry guns? Do all of your players have a posse who runs around with them and takes the fall when the police stops their car and finds drugs? Are the Pacers fans really expected to turn their heads and pretend that we accept this kind of behavior as a price for having a winning team?

Subject: Lineup combinations offer variety of possibilities

It is an accepted fact that the Pacers roster is not stocked with top-tier talent. Even with that being the case, they still have to put a team on the floor. Given that O'Neal, Tinsley and Granger will be starters no matter what, I'd like to know who do fans think the other two starters should be? Should the Pacers go big and slow with Dunleavy and Murphy or Foster? Should they go small and fast with Daniels and Rush? Or should there be an emphasis on outside shooting and go with Rush and Murphy? I'd love to see the starting five that Eric from Kokomo mentioned but that would never happen.

Subject: Fans debate merits of supporting team

When the team went through the ordeal at the Palace of Auburn Hills the fans were behind them 100 percent. When we were clearly not at our best the fans were there ... where are they now? I've been attending games for a few years now and slowly but surely seen the spirit leave our Fieldhouse. I don't really understand it. Yes team chemistry hasn't been perfect, but last season was our 40th Anniversary. Where were all the fans? The organization did numerous deals to draw fans, but they did not come. I remember listening to games on the radio and watching them on TV and hearing the arena so loud you could barely hear the announcer over the crowd noise. I'm only 18, people, this was not that long ago. Some may use the excuse that the excitement isn't quite there without Reggie. We have to move on!! I loved Uncle Reggie, still do, but one man did not incite all of those fans. The Fieldhouse is beautiful, our players are of a very high caliber, what we need is our fans to come back! Give the team a chance! Ignore the critics and come to Conseco to support your team! If you want the team to do better and have another shot at a championship it would help if they had more support in their efforts. So get out there and root for your team and things will change.

The only way I'll go is if the Pacers somehow can get Jamaal Tinsley out of here.

Winning helps yes, but it isn't enough. Look at the Colts. They give this entire state something to be proud of. It isn't just the winning, although that doesn't hurt, it is the character of the team, too. No thug mentality (and) me-first attitudes. That is why they sell out. When the Pacers get back to that kind of character, the house will once again be packed.

The fans will come back when the franchise gives them a reason to come back. Over the past couple of season there has been a real slide in the caliber of play from the Pacers. It stems from several things, players not liking the coach, players not wanting to be in Indiana and very poor personnel moves that have made the team worse for many years to come. The fans will come back but the franchise has to do something that shows they are trying to get better. ... About the only way most people would consider going to a game is if the Pacers announce a starting lineup of Daniels, Granger, O'Neal, Diogu and Rush. Fans don't want to see Tinsley, Dunleavy and Murphy play just because they are making too much money and have long-term contracts. Let those guys ride the pine and let the players that have talent and desire play. The fans will come back but it is up to the franchise to make the first move.

I gave up my season tickets this year after 13 years. Here's why:
1) I am still a devoted fan, but the cost of my tickets went up nearly 300 percent in that time. I am not naive enough to believe that ticket prices will ever come down again, but it is difficult to justify the investment when the product on the floor is inconsistent (at best), and off the floor ... well, you know what I mean. I hope it comes back, but I cannot afford to bet thousands each year that it will.
2) I think the NBA in general is looking up with a core group of great players with good character (D. Wade, LeBron, etc.), but the focus needs to get back on quality of play, not quality of highlights or quality of endorsements. Commissioner Stern did a good job of bringing the league back from the brink (with a little help from Larry, Magic, and Michael), but the focus on stars rather than teams has hurt the long-term ability of teams with poor records or off-the-court issues to draw well, especially in more fragile markets like Indy.

Subject: What Will it Take to Pack the House?

Over the past couple of seasons attendance at Pacer games has steadily gotten worse. The problem has gotten so bad that the team actually lowered the price of tickets. There is plenty of blame to go around but assigning blame is not what I am interested in. I want to know what will really bring the fans back. Some claim that team chemistry is enough. Some claim that a faster, more up-tempo game will bring in the fans. Some claim that winning cures everything. I have attended several Pacer games a season for over 20 years. I miss the days of it being so loud that my ears hurt when I left. The team should have better team chemistry this season. Most but not all of the bad character players are gone. The team is looking to run and score more. Even with all of these things in the Pacers favor most people I talk to have zero desire to go watch the Pacers. People used to fight to get tickets, now most people turn down free tickets. I will go to my usual three to four games this season. What will it take to get the rest of you there?

Subject: Daniels Should Get Opportunity at Point

Don't forget Marquis Daniels. He is a true and intriguing option at the point. He is an offbeat player with size and the ability to break down the defense, and he could very well fill the point position, and not just as an option for a few minutes. Added to which, he is a good defender with the best chance to stop or slow the Wades and Co.

While I agree that another point guard on the roster would make sense, I do not believe that Sarunas is the man for the job. He was most effective when playing the two spot anyway. We already have two sub-par defenders for point guards. If we are going to bring in another point guard it should be someone capable of playing defense. While it would be nice to have Sarunas' outside shooting ability, currently there is no proven person on the roster that can stop a slashing point guard. Granger and Daniels are good defenders, but probably are not quick enough to guard the point. Right idea but wrong person.

Subject: Back to the Future at Point Guard

Although I don't know Coach O'Brien's plans for next season, I think that there is a problem in the playmaker position. We have Tinsley who had a full season (missed 10 games) after three seasons averaging 45 games. Then Diener, who is a risky decision for such an important position averaging 25 games (11 minutes playing time with one assist) the last two seasons. Daniels could be used as a playmaker under conditions, but he is clearly not a "real" playmaker. I don't know the status of McLeod and Armstrong; if they're staying or not. I do know, however, that many teams (Celtics, Cavs, Heat) are looking for playmakers and seem to be more appealing for players since they are title contenders. I believe that the Pacers should try to sign again Sarunas J. He is a player who knows the team, he is more experienced than his first pass, has winning spirit, the fans love him, and he might fit well into Coach O'Brien's plans (especially perimeter shooting). I know that he wants to leave the Warriors, and although a lot of European teams are interested in signing him, but he wants to stay in the NBA. I think that Sarunas will be a great addition to our team, filling in a position that we seem to have a problem.

Subject: Maybe Both Sides Have a Point

I believe that both Jeremy and Aarik both made some good points. Maybe Reggie didn't believe that the Pacers had a chance to make to the Finals. He was even disappointed about management not talking to Mark Jackson for a coaching job. On the other hand, true fans should not give up hope. However, it's easy to, from seeing the Pacers' performance for the past few years. In a way, the Pacers remind me of the Hornets: a good team under the radar with talent that is riddled with injuries that just doesn't have enough to make it to the top at this time.

People tend to put the cart before the horse on this one. I tend to agree that it is better to have a team that plays basketball and conducts themselves the way we would want role models in our community to do, and talk about frustration about lack of championships is crazy. A faithful fan is proud to stand by their team through good and bad times. Why not stop the harping over who we used to have and appreciate the team we have now, a core group of young and upcoming guys.

Subject: True Fan Never Loses Faith

In response to Jeremy's post about Reggie not having faith in the current team, I think that depends on one's definition of faith. He obviously did not have faith that we are more of a title contender than Boston, but so what? I think any real Pacers fan is clinging to the faith that this team is going to be more well-behaved, team-focused, and exhibit more hustle, energy and passion than in the past few years. That's all any real Pacers fan is concerned about. No talk of a championship is ever going to be intelligible until those things are demonstrated, so first things first. And I don't really care what management expects me to think or not think, I am a Pacers fan of my own accord. They never really have a say unless you give it to them.

Subject: Reggie's Flirtation May Reflect on Pacers

No one blames Reggie Miller for thinking about coming out of retirement. Every former athlete thinks they can still play and most have a hard time giving up the game that they love. The troubling part is that Reggie was going to come back as a Celtic. The Pacers are in desperate need of outside shooting and he never even considered coming back as a Pacer. What are we to conclude about the current Pacers roster if Reggie thought about playing but had no desire to do so as a Pacer? If the greatest Pacer of all time has no faith in the current team how can management expect the fans to?

Subject: Reggie Made Right Decision

It was reported late Thursday night that Miller said he thought about the comeback and finally made the decision to not go ahead with it. He went as far as to say "So never, ever, ever again. If anybody is ever interested in me playing again, please don't call.'' This sounds like Reggie is for sure going to call it a career and what a great career it was. He didn't get that elusive title but all through his career Reggie was a great player and a great competitor. He will be remembered as an Indiana Pacer, where his No. 31 is retired and his fans really loved him. Reggie's career was great despite the lack of the championship ring, and he has nothing to regret by not making this comeback. Although it would have been cool to see him play again, it would have been hard seeing him in another uniform and especially the green of the Boston Celtics.

Subject: History Shows Value of Chemistry, Cohesion

I've read the critcism from the “fan” who thinks that those of us who are optimistic about this upcoming season are thinking with our hearts as opposed to our heads. Do you not remember the squad that went to the Finals? Uncle Reg, as great as he was, never was really considered an explosive scorer. Rik Smits in the middle and the two Davises were never household names. Mark Jackson was a good point guard and Jalen Rose was a very effective scorer at times, but we were definitely no Miami with Shaq and Wade or Detroit with Big Ben, Billups and Rip or even a Dallas with Dirk, Terry, Stackhouse and Harris. It's team work and being able to trust each other on the court that makes champions. I'm not saying we're gonna win it all, but we will definitely be back in our rightful place in the postseason.

Who let the Knick fans in here? I suppose we'll just have to wait and see, huh? Part of being a true fan is having hope in your team, even when all odds are against you. That's what marks the difference between Joe Schmoe channel-flipping and fans like myself who actually follow the team and watch every game even if it has to be recorded and seen late at night after work. Who knows? Maybe if we show this new team (for those not paying attention, I'm talking about style of play here) a little faith and a little love, maybe one of them will read it and the confidence will get passed onto the court. It's that same mindset that makes all of us yell at the TV or from the nosebleeds in hopes that it somehow helps. The difference is, it may actually work here. Besides, isn't it more fun to think positive before the preseason starts than to be thinking negatively already?

Subject: Optimists Thinking More with Hearts than Heads

While there are some Pacers fans that believe the current roster will be good, they are also the same fans that thought Damon Bailey could play in the pros. These people are fans with their hearts and not their heads. Anyone that really follows basketball knows that for the current roster to do anything, they will have to play far greater than the sum of its parts.

Subject: Excitement, Anticipation Build as Season Nears

I think the Pacers are truly serious about winning this coming season. Yes, all teams are, but I see that spark in the Pacers. You know, all this talk about the Celtics being a top contender and winning the championship is really shallow. Take a look at the soccer teams in Europe. If you see teams like Real Madrid and Barcelona, they aren't winning even with their All-Star lineups! They have virtually every good player on the face of the Earth on their rosters, but it just doesn't show. Why? Because of chemistry. Every player wants to out-do each other on their own team, and hence there is no production. But look at the teams that have just those "above-average" players, and few stars. Those are the teams that are winning! Look at the Pistons. They don't have any of those "superstars.". But they still manage to stay at the top. So if the Pacers are serious about winning, which I'm sure they are this year, and I see that spark in them, they can go great lengths.

This is no rag-tag bunch of rejects. This is right here and now, a team that could become seriously scary. J.O. is an absolute treasure - a 20/9 guy with his head on straight, a guy who leads from the heart. And he's on our team! Tinsley's a mood-swing from realizing and then proving that he is an elite point guard. Daniels is in the same mind-frame. Granger, Dunleavy, Diogu, Rush, Williams and yes, Harrison all have something to prove... and the skills to prove it. Throw in Murphy and Foster and maybe Armstrong? We've got depth, determination, a solid veteran presence and top-shelf young guys. They're going to be a tough, tough team to beat. And now the final motivating factor is in place. They're totally underrated.

I can't believe that there are still Pacers fans that think that we need to make a blockbuster trade. Do you realize how much that would destroy our team? We would have absouloutely no chemistry and we would go nowhere. I respect what we have done and I believe that we will prove a lot of people wrong. If we can stay healthy, this team can get past the first round if not even farther.

I think that this year will be a very exciting year for Pacers fans and I can hardly wait. I have been a die-hard Pacer fan for years and have recently relocated to the area with a job change and I can hardly wait until the season starts. I believe all of the moves initiated by Larry Bird, including the coaching change, will yield positive results for the team. The team chemistry is there and they have some awesome talent. My advice to all the fans: don’t throw in the towel on my team, they will soar this year.

I have one gnawing concern: David Harrison, wherefore art thou? He is either our team’s best-kept secret or he isn’t figuring into our plans. It was encouraging to see our svelte 7-footer running the floor late last year. But it was troubling to hear J.O.’s recent comment that Harrison is “working hard” but that we could use another big body. Does he mean another big body besides the 7-0, 280-pound one that Harrison resides in? For J.O. to move to the 4 spot, we need a c-e-n-t-e-r. Murphy, Foster and Diogu can’t take the low post from J.O. so they roam the paint as oversized threes, and we are full up at the three spot. My other concern is that our added shooting ability is great but one-dimensional shooters won’t play. They were a cheap pickup for a reason. It takes a combination of genius and luck to pull this stuff off. Overall, I’m cautiously optimistic.

Subject: These Pacers Deserve a Chance

I will be the first to admit that I jumped to conclusions when I read the article about Jermaine O’Neal and his wishes to play for the Lakers. After reading his interview, it appears that it was taken out of context and that he would like to remain a Pacer if management wants to move forward in its quest to build a champion. I think this team deserves a chance. You’ve heard J.O. and Foster both say that the chemistry issues are long gone and that this unit was actually close both on and off the court at the end of last season. It would appear that the pieces seem to fit Coach O’Brien’s system. Tinsley will finally be given a chance to run the team. We have a center in Murphy who can hit the open shot and clear space for O’Neal. Dunleavy is an oversized two who plays heady and has a ton of court sense. Granger is entering his third year and is primed for a breakout season. I also agree with some comments yesterday that, if healthy, David Harrison could be an extremely valuable piece to this team. His size and ability to score could be just what we need. Add in Rush’s shooting, a healthy Daniels and a more experienced Williams and this team could surprise. I hope that management brings back Armstrong because he is such a stabilizing force in the locker room and his enthusiasm is infectious. Jermaine…hang in there with the Pacers. If you are the cornerstone of the team that brings us back to the elite, you will be legendary in this state and your jersey will hang in the rafters next to Uncle Reg.

Subject: Reggie more Interesting than Pacers

The other day I was thinking how cool it is that Reggie Miller can still stir up so much media hype even as a two-year retired NBA player. On the other hand, I think it is kind of sad that Pacers fans are more interested and excited to see if Reggie Miller is returning than our own Pacers' season starting. Pacers fans are just dying for something new to happen. Sure we have players that can create decent chemistry together, but who are we kidding? That is boring. This is not high school basketball, this is the National Basketball Association, we want to see fast-action basketball with a true All-Star to lead the team.

Subject: Pacers, not Celtics, Taking Right Approach

I am back in this blog after swearing it off for months a while back. The team last year flew south exactly when I said it would ... in March. I must say now, I don't believe that the triple-threat of the Celtics is near enough to be the contender that some think it will be. Granted, it will be an unstoppable trio while on the floor but, without a great bench, they go no deeper than the second round. Remember, these superstars are aging, which means the bench is ultra-important. There is no bench. With injuries, sub time, a lack of a deep bench, this is a team that has virtually no chance of a championship -- but they will sell tickets. No doubt, they will hurt people while all three are on the floor at once, but through an 82-game season, injuries, fatigue, and other factors will affect the overall performance of these superstars and destroy the season. Boston traded it all, short term, to sell tickets. Indiana did not. And, as much as I hated the eight-man trade, I must respect what I watched this spring. Management, and I have called for their dismissal, have shown great discipline in keeping this team intact. I have had time to reconsider what I think of this team, and I think I have figured it out, but it depends on some unsung heroes (of the future) that are on the team.

The way I see it, Harrison is the secret weapon, or, the key. He must learn to stand and wait for the inside game to come to him., not chase it down, which is what the opponent wants. This is essential for J.O. to be able to take a lot of minutes at center. The second thing is, Daniels must remain healthy. Without the slash, the season is over. (Do the Pacers have another slasher? Doubtful!). The third thing is Tinsley … I am sick of hearing about bars, will to win, and other things like this. The fact is that this man was held back by Rick. If I had his talent and was held back by Carlisle, I would spend time at the VIP, too! Add Granger, Diogu, Foster, and you have experience, energy, and the enthusiasm that will far exceed the trio of Boston.

I'm tired of hearing all of the crap about Boston and others. I want Bird to have this chance to show that he is a chemistry genius to go along with what he was able to do on the floor as a player. Do I believe in Bird? I'm not sure. Do I believe in the raw talent of this squad that I read has no chance? A whole lot more than most people I have seen on this blog do. Maybe my 40 years as a Pacers fan (from age 7) have affected my judgment. I don't think so. This team has addressed the shooting problem. However, the VIP factor must be stopped. I think it will be. I have the utmost hope for this team, and I believe that it will far exceed the Celtics in the playoffs of 2008. Bookmark this, and give me grief in the spring, if I'm wrong … I really don't think I am!

We do not need blockbuster trades! We do not need to be millions of dollars over the salary cap! We need unity, loyalty and belief in our team! J.O. is my favorite NBA player and I like everyone else was disappointed when the news broke of his supposed trade quote. However I just stepped back and gave J.O. a chance to explain. Thanks for the great classy explanation Jermaine! We are proud to have you! See you in a Pacers uniform leading our new improved team! This will be a fun year again. Way to go fans, when we all unite and believe we will be hard to beat!

I was also very encouraged by J.O.'s interview. I agree with him 100 percent about Coach O'Brien and his approach to things. Every NBA game is decided by a few easy buckets and a few more stops. Jim O'Brien & Dick Harter will shore up our defensive lapses. If someone would finally let Tinsley run an offense, we might get a whole new perspective of his talents (and his attitude). Being happy in any workplace is essential to success. Jamaal Tinsley hasn't been happy for four years and unfortunately for him, 15,000 to 18,000 people got to observe it each night which most of us don't have to live through. We've brought in some real shooters finally to keep the opposing defense more honest. We have some young guys like Granger, Williams, Diogu, & Diener that are only going to get better. When you add in quality, battle-tested veterans like J.O., Tinsley and Foster, I think the Pacers are going to really surprise some folks this year ... and it all starts with Coach O'Brien.

Subject: Debating the Wisdom, Merit of Reggie's Comeback

Reggie Miller has been my hero for as long as I can remember. He played for the Pacers from when I was one to when I was 20. He always stood out to me because I saw him as a man of integrity. He could have gone to another team and easily won a championship but he chose not to. He said he wanted to be one of the few players who played their entire career with one team because it is incredibly rare these days. He did that and became every Hoosier's hero while he did it. So to hear that he is considering playing for another team completely breaks my heart. Maybe I'm being selfish in this feeling, but he belongs to Indiana and if he were to play somewhere else it would tarnish that goal he had of playing for one team his entire career.

I would love to see Reggie shooting 3s again. I don't care if he is gonna play for the Celtics, Mavs or any other team. A real Miller fan should encourage his comeback. We love this guy no matter what!

Reggie Miller....in Boston....even the possibility is a hard and bitter pill to swallow. At almost 18 I have grown up watching Reggie's triumphs and failures. First as a fan of the Chicago Bulls, watching him put a scare in them during the playoffs, and then for the last five years or so as a die-hard Pacers fan. I love Uncle Reggie and I was fortunate enough to see the last game he played at Conseco and attend his jersey retirement. To think of the Reggie in anything but blue and gold is very trying. I truly don't blame him for wanting to get that championship ring, but as any NBA fan knows four good players does not make a team. If one or more of them goes down, then their chances of a championship quickly diminish. So why come out of retirement, why give up a job that he enjoys, for something that isn't certain?

If Reggie wants to go for it, he has my support. It would be hard to watch, but the guy was loyal to us to his detriment and I intend to return to favor to my detriment. That being said, I don’t think he would do it if he thought about it. If Boston did win this year, it won’t be because of him. It wouldn’t be his championship, it would just be a ring. If he had done it in Indiana, everyone would point to him as the hero. You know when the confetti comes down in Boston, the cameras will be on Pierce, Allen, and Garnett. And if they lose, as Malone did in L.A., what a waste to his reputation.

Reggie Miller was loved by every Pacers fan because of his great talent and class. He represented everything that is great about sports: hard work, perseverance and loyalty. Pacers fans will never forget Reggie's loyalty -- it's part of who he was. When I think of Gary Payton or Karl Malone the first thing that comes into my mind is "ring chaser," someone who left his fans and team behind to go for a ring. Their great level of play is secondary. Karl never won a ring and Gary did, but they're still just ring-chasers and this taints their careers. Reggie was a great Hall of Fame player and needs no rings to prove how great he was. If Reggie comes back and plays with the Celtics I will be crushed -- not just as a Pacers fan, but a fan of one of my heroes who represented everything great about sports.

Subject: Idea of Reggie in Green has Fans Conflicted

I just can't see Reggie playing in the same town as the New England Patriots. Oh, God. Did I just put them in the same sentence? What words can truly reflect how Pacer Nation feels? Is the best we can say, "Well at least he's not playing for The Knicks?" The thought of him playing for anyone else is a disturbing jab to my heart and I'm sure many feel the same way. If he does come back, I'll wish him the best. But when he enters the game, I'll have no choice but to boo my face off. At least it would give me a reason to sell all my 31 memorabilia, items that I wouldn't sell for the world if he stayed with us. But at what price? The knowledge that there are no longer real life superheroes. I quit believing in Santa Claus a long time ago, but now I'm faced with a much harsher reality.

Reggie Miller in green. I just don't know how to feel about it. There is a part of me that would love to see him competing for a championship, anywhere. And yet ... loyalty is a funny thing. He gave us the best years of his athletic career but I am still selfish enough to want him back with us, even if we won't be contenders for a few years. I might even be able to deal with it, unless we play each other. How do you root against the Pacers? How do you not want Reggie to get his ring? I'm 36, the two are so intertwined in my thinking, my loyalty might actually come into question.

I have been a huge Pacers fan forever and met Reggie Miller when I was like 5. He has always been my biggest hero. Whenever I have a basketball I always think of him. I'm a big 3-point shooter and always look up to him. I'm kind of on both sides of the issue. Coming back from retirement, which he spent 18 years on a team, and going to another team just doesn't seem right. But Reggie Miller does deserve a championship and he can do that on the Celtics. It's the Celtics' year this time, and I would be more than happy to support them, so Reggie could just have one championship under his belt.

All I can say is that Reggie should look to the failed come back of M.J. with Washington to see what the results may be for him. Reggie, please don’t taint your reputation by trying to chase down a ring on the coattails for the Johnny-come-lately Celtics. You were a rare breed in today’s NBA, a guy who stood for class, grit, determination, and loyalty. You played with class and you went out with class. You are still the man in Indy, even with Peyton’s Super Bowl championship last year.

As a big Larry Bird fan, it was always fun watching the Boston Celtics led by Bird and then watch him coach the Indiana Pacers. But seeing how the Celtics have gotten the new "Big Three" with Garnett, Pierce and Allen, it's brought back the excitement of the 1980s again! And now, to hear that Reggie Miller may come back as a Celtic is the best news yet! Even though as a Pacers fan it seems unfair, it's also not Miller's fault who worked so hard to get a ring only to fail. This may be an opportunity to get one. Who would not do that?

Subject: J.O.'s Words Reassuring, Reggie's Troubling

After reading Conrad’s interview with J.O., I’m also feeling optimistic about this upcoming season. Hearing that J.O. has confidence in the new coach and his surrounding cast is great. I don’t think the average fan realizes how our roster can cause match up problems for most of the other teams in the NBA at almost every position. You've got Mike D. who is huge for a shooting guard, M. Daniels who can even run the point if necessary, Big Ike and Troy can spread the floor with their mid-range jumpers and of course the versatility of Granger and Williams can create havoc for any team. I say well done Larry and Donnie, what the team lacks in star power it most definitely makes up for in versatility. I’m going to go out on a limb and say that the Pacers will have a better record this year than the fly-by-night Celtics with or without the addition of one of the best shooting guards of all-time, Reggie Miller

All I can say is that Jermaine O'Neal is a class act. His new interview was inspiring and heartfelt, and there is a definite quality of leadership about him now which surprised me! I am definitely excited about the new season!

I just want to thank J.O. for clarifying his comments and for being a great Pacer. Also, I want to thank Pacers.com for providing the full transcript so we can see that this isn't just J.O. back-tracking but what he did really indeed say. I am excited about the upcoming season and I am thrilled J.O. is part of it!

I am a Jermaine O'Neal fan and I hope he comes with a better season than ever if he's with the Pacers, but I think he's playing the wrong sport: If he can backpedal like that, he should be playing defensive back in the NFL.

The beat on the street is that Reggie is contemplating a return with the Celtics, and I have to admit, I feel split on the issue! With all the turmoil that has surrounded our team the last several years, it'd be so refreshing to see Reggie drilling 3s again ... but in a Celtics uniform? I'm not certain who I'd root for: our consummate franchise player, or our franchise?

What do you think the reaction in Indy would be if Reggie comes out retirement to play for Boston?

The past years have been real tough to true Pacers fans. The endless controversy, Reggie retirement, lost chances, brawls, trade requests, etc. My brother and I have tried to stay positive through it all, believing that the joy of a championship will be that much sweeter after the battle of a lifetime. To some strange extent the past two weeks have been harder. Starting with the toughest blow, with the announcement that the NBA had a ref that changed the outcome of games, and then J.O made a bad move by letting reporters lure him into headline quotes, even if he was misquoted. And than yesterday evening my brother called me with a strange voice saying Reggie is thinking of signing with Boston. There was silence for a few minutes and than I just said, "I'm sorry, no words ... I'll call you later." Reggie was my inspiration as a child and even today or rather yesterday. So many conversations, I found myself saying: "Yeah, but look at Reggie, he never sold out to chase a championship." He stayed true. At home. Making for some of our most memorable moments of our lives. Now? I need a new belief system. A new hero. A new NBA.

Subject: After Further Review, J.O.'s Message Clearer

If fans would listen to the full interview with J.O. instead of the bits and pieces that were aired on the news they might have a different opinion. You can’t blame him for how he feels when he has heard all the same trade talks all summer just like we have, even after he said he wanted to stay. He has been the best the Pacers have had in a long time and I hope we can keep him so he can help us get a championship.

Come on fans. Why be down on J.O.? If a player publicly “welcomes” a trade (while not officially asking for one) it will obviously serve to alienate the fan base. But let’s not be naïve. He is only reciprocating what Larry has made abundantly clear: “We will always consider a trade of any player, at any time, for anyone, if it makes our team better”. Where is the personal loyalty in that? There isn’t. The business objectives remain the same: Always get better. J.O. said that if it came to that, he would welcome it under certain conditions for reasons which he is entitled to.

Everyone is bringing up Reggie and loyalty through ups and downs. Reggie never experienced the lack of talent around him the way J.O. has the last few years. I have never been a big J.O. fan and would not mind seeing us bring in a new player to be our star. We have done nothing in the playoffs since 2000 and J.O. was not a huge piece of that team so why do we believe he is the key to success? We need someone who can get us at least into the playoffs and hopefully beyond the first few rounds.

In my opinion, Jermaine O'Neal lacks insight. If he is traded to the Lakers does he honestly believe he stands that great of a chance in winning a championship? Did he forget about San Antonio, Dallas, Phoenix, Houston, and Utah -- or even Golden State? The West is the best -- it's no secret. He stands a greater chance at making the Finals by staying put. Does he think his chances are great in New Jersey, with aging, injury-prone players? Where's the insight? I'm disappointed in his lack of insight and confidence as well with Indiana. With a new coach, system and a core of young players destined for greatness (Granger, Daniels) -- the Indiana Pacers have great potential in advancing far into the playoffs -- perhaps into the Finals. For O'Neal to assume the Pacers will have five or six more losing seasons is disappointing.

You have got to be kidding me. Loyalty! Jermaine has played his heart out for the people in this state and for the organization. He has been a role model in the community. He has played hurt; when others took nights off it was Jermaine O'Neal that risked his health and career to give this franchise an opportunity to simply make the playoffs. You talk of loyalty, Larry Bird was more loyal and respectful to Ron Artest than he has been to Jermaine.

Let me start by saying I'm one of the biggest J.O. fans in Indy, so it hurts me that the Pacers won't get him some help and make him happy. So I think the best thing to do is to get him some help in the form of a big-name NBA player.

Subject: Fans React Strongly to O'Neal's Comments

Jermaine O’Neal’s latest plea to be traded is disappointing. I have been a J.O. supporter but maybe it is time for him to move on. He rewards a franchise that took a chance on him, made him the face of the organization and paid him like a top-tier superstar with a public trade demand. Reggie Miller is beloved by the city because of the loyalty that he showed the Pacers. He could have chased a championship by signing as a free agent with a contender but he chose to stick with the franchise through thick and thin. O’Neal has said the right things since he has been here about wanting to be the cornerstone of a championship contender and helping the organization to that plateau. I guess that was all lip service. It’s time to build the Pacers around a collection of tough-minded players that want to be here.

What happened to loyalty? What happened to leadership? The Pacers have struggled ever since the loss of Reggie Miller's leadership. J.O. has once again shown that he is not a leader. Public statements that he wants to be traded instead of being the core of a rebuilding team are self-serving and, more importantly, selfish. Reggie lived through the ups and the downs with the Pacers, always setting the example of hard work and sportsmanship. Jermaine may consider himself a great player, but I don't see it. Great players are the whole package. He hasn't shown it to me. Personally, I hope he is traded. He's not a franchise player and never will be.

Hearing Jermaine's latest comments about wanting to play with his buddy Kobe, the guy has to go. In my opinion, as a 30-year Pacers fan, I cannot root for him anymore. He has burned this bridge. Has he already forgotten how the Pacers saved him from the Blazers bench and became an All-Star here? Has he so quickly forgotten what the city and team has done for his career? In my opinion you can not have a a guy here that does not want to be here. Trade him. I'd rather root for Jamaal Tinsley than him now -- at least Jamaal wants to be here.

If Jermaine wants to be traded then expressing that to Larry is fine but going public with it is not because then everyone knows he is unhappy and they think they can get him for nothing. ... Larry also needs to treat Jermaine just like he is treating us: don't worry about his best interest just ours. Stand firm Larry and do what is best for us.

I really think it's time to let J.O go. Why keep a player who doesn't want to play for the team anymore?

Subject: O'Brien Must Align Puzzling Pieces

I just hope that our coach is home and the lights are on. Coach O’Brien will be dubbed a genius, knighted, and achieve NBA rock-star status if he can get meld all the roles and rotations, styles and positions into some semblance of a cohesive offense. Are we a post team, a pick-and-roll team, or a fast-break and transition team? Is the 6-8, 250-pound Diogu competing for minutes with the 7-foot, 290 pound Harrison? Is our intended four man Williams going to be a perimeter threat like … Rush? Will Granger be a Scottie Pippen type forward or will he be standing on the arc? We have a lot of pieces. What we do with them is the puzzle.

Subject: Pacers Years Away from Title Contention

I find it hard to believe that Donnie and Larry can continue telling us that we’re building a championship caliber team. Realistically, we’re looking at a fourth-place finish in the Central Division. Detroit, Chicago, and Cleveland should all finish with better records and that means, best-case scenario, we’re looking at a six seed for the playoffs. And there’s no guarantee on that. The competition in the East has stepped it up, and there are more teams with legitimate chances at the 6-8 seeds than there were last year. It seems like our hopes for this season are riding on the belief that other teams will decline, be ravaged by injuries, or won’t be able to put it together because on paper, we don’t have a chance to win our division, much less the conference. In my book, that doesn’t make us a championship caliber team. We obviously can’t win a championship now, and we won’t win one in the near future (you can’t tell me we have a brighter future than Chicago, Toronto, and even Charlotte and Atlanta, and that’s just in the East). It’s time to look at things realistically and make a commitment. Either do whatever it takes to win, or unload and rebuild, because the status quo is not working.

Subject: Boston Deal Has Everybody Talking

The Boston trade has everyone talking, Well, let me put in my two cents worth. Yes, they have three great players, but when one of them gets into foul trouble, or gets hurt, or just need to take a break, who is going to fill in now? They just got rid of everyone who could come in off the bench and play. That’s when a Pacers team that is as deep as it is good will jump all over that three-player team.. The Pacers have good players two and three people deep. We will give them fits and problems, I see the Pacers winning a lot more games this year and beating the Boston team in every way when we play.

Where are the Pacers? Other teams are making big moves (read: Boston). The Pacers appear to be timid and unwilling to recognize that the team will not contend in the East, let alone in the league. Tinsley as the starting point guard? We've seen that failure. J.O. carrying the team? Another failure. Role players (read: everyone else)? They won't do it. The big trade last season was a bust (both Al and Golden State). Sorry Larry, but you may need to be the next one to go. At least your teammates (read: Kevin and Danny) are willing to do big things.

You need to understand that Boston is trying to win now, while our focus is directed a few years away. And I don't think that anyone who is a true Pacers fan dislikes J.O. Those of us who are saying that we should trade him are those of us who do not think that we will be able to contend with the squad we have now and therefore can only get better by bringing in new blood. You say, "trade Tinsley, Dunleavy, David Harrison, and Murphy, if anyone," but do you realize that someone has to want them in order to trade for them? You can't just decide to trade someone and then go out and do it, you have to find someone who is willing to take them (and I don't know of any team in the NBA who would want any of those players without getting something bigger in return). J.O., Granger, and our other young guys are the only guys who other teams would really be willing to give anything up for, and we are saying trade J.O. because we are looking to improve our future (and trading young talent like Granger would not improve our future). If we were to trade the players you have mentioned, we would be trading our problems for someone else's, which would get us nowhere.

Subject: Celtics' Deal Flashy but not Threatening

Everyone wants to talk about how good Boston will be next year and that Indy needs to conduct a trade to match the moves of others in the Eastern Conference. One must realize that Boston took a serious risk and now has no bench. If any of Pierce, Garnett, or Allen go down with an injury, that team will suffer tremendously. They also lack talent outside of those three and question marks remain in relying on a very young PG (Rondo) that can't shoot and a C that can't stay healthy (Perkins). I believe, however, the Pacers have tremendous strengths including depth. This team has experienced veterans (Foster, Murphy, Dunleavy) as well as young talent (Granger, Williams, Daniels, Ike, Harrison, Diener, and Rush). Throw in a superstar post player (J.O.) and a pass-first PG (Tinsley) and a new coach with a new philosophy (O'Brien) and a new-old coach to restore team defense (Harter) ... This team has tremendous potential and I as a fan am excited about what this team will do next year and the years to come.

Look, the Pacers need to keep J.O., especially with the arrival of K.G. and Zach Randolph to the Eastern Conference. J.O., one of the few talented, athletic big men, is needed to match up down low with these newly acquired frontcourt powers. With all due respect to Rick Carlisle (and I think he's an excellent coach), I think a coaching change was needed. I think his message was wearing thin on the players. I also think he didn't get fair chance to use the team to its full potential because of injuries and incidents beyond his control (malice at The Palace). But with a new coach who sports a winning record and some new players, I think the Pacers have the ability to surprise the entire league in the upcoming '07-08 season.

The problems the Pacers face on the court are not the supporting cast but J.O.‘s tentativeness when it comes to taking the rock to the cup. He is still getting excellent position in the paint consistently but as opposed to going toward the rim he tends to settle for fadeaway jumpers. If J.O. takes the ball strong to the rim you more than likely have a bucket or a foul. There are not many people in the league that can match up with him one-on-one. I say take it to the hole and leave the 15-foot jump shots to your guards.

Jermaine O'Neal is the only "superstar" we have on this team, so why would you want to trade him? Enough of this crying-for-him-to-be-traded stuff. Trade Tinsley, Dunleavy, David Harrison, and Murphy, if anyone. Don't get down just because Boston is doing big things fast. They are mortgaging their future. In addition, they traded away their entire depth. They probably would have done just as well before the Garnett trade, because they gave up some really good young talent and have the luxury of being in a weak division and conference. We, on the other hand, already have good young talent. With O'Neal and Granger, we will have a fighter's chance for years to come. The emergence of Shawne Williams this year will also be key. He could contend with Rush and Dunleavy for the starting SG job, and I wouldn't be suprised if he got it. Tinsley is as much of an underachiever and off court distraction as you can get, but he's better than anyone else on our squad at the point, so get over it. Remember, there is a new coach in town, and that is pivotal in keeping J.O. and Tinsley motivated. I know they both really disliked Coach Carlisle, and now they finally have their wish, and thus, no more excuses. ... Take it from someone who actually watched every game last year. We will only get better with age. Boston will only get worse.

I know it's easy to envy the Celtics right now, with three legitimate franchise players, but Indiana basketball is not primarily about glitz, glamour and big names. Sure, every team needs good players to start with, and we have that, but the beauty of basketball, especially Indiana basketball, is that when played right, the sum is greater than the parts. Don't forget how the USA All-Star National Team got beaten by a well-executed Greek pick and roll offense. If the Indiana Pacers play Indiana basketball, which is fundamentally sound, unselfish, hard-nosed, hustle basketball, they will not only rise to the top of the Eastern Conference, they will inspire a state.

Subject: Garnett Deal Could Launch J.O. Sweepstakes

With K.G. finally moving to Boston, the J.O. sweepstakes will begin. Kevin and Jermaine were the two big men available this offseason and most teams thought that K.G. was the better player. Now with K.G. no longer available, the bidding for O'Neal will begin. This could actually help the Pacers. With Garnett no longer available, O'Neal becomes the only star big man left. That means teams that feel they have to make a move will have to pay for it. O'Neal is a good player and has been good to the city of Indianapolis. I hate to see him go. He is not and has never been the problem in the starting lineup. The problem has always been the supporting cast. Jordan in his prime could not have won with the likes of Tinsley, Murphy and Dunleavy in his starting lineup. It is unfair to blame O'Neal for anything that has happened to the Pacers. However, no one in their right mind is going to trade a starting caliber player for either Murphy or Dunleavy. So the only way the Pacers can get better is to trade O'Neal and hopefully get more than one starting caliber player. With Garnett officially off the market O'Neal is the only quality big man left. So let the bidding begin.

Why is everyone looking for a big move when a big move could put us ahead or behind a few years? I say the squad we have right now is good and can help us win and get into the Conference championship. You guys forget that you also need teamwork and dedication to win. And I think that this roster we have right now is dedicated to winning.

Well, I know "a quick-hitting offense with J.O. inside, Daniels slashing and Rush hitting threes will be all any team in the East can handle." However, that isn't much compared to a better quick-hitting offense with Garnett inside, Paul Pierce slashing and Ray Allen hitting threes. Simply put, the Pacers aren't bad, but many teams in the East have better talent. The Pacers need to make some big moves, or they are just going to be a decent/mediocre team once again.

I think we should seriously consider moving Dunleavy and Murphy to the second unit to open up more opportunities for the young guys who are our future. We would open up the SG for Daniels, and I think pushing J.O. to center and playing Ike at PF would be very interesting to watch. It would also give us one of the best second units in the East, with Dunleavy, Murphy, Rush, Foster and Williams. Plus, I could stop hearing everyone whining about Murphy and Dunleavy because I think they would be very productive in shorter minutes. I also think that Garnett finally being traded will make it more likely for O'Neal to go because he will become the top name in trade talks now.

Subject: Boston's Big Move Kindles Offseason Debate

The Pacers desperately need a top-notch shooting guard. The recent signings might make for a good second team but are far short of the big move we need to make. When I look at the big moves Boston has made it's obvious they are committed to win. Is the Pacers' management as committed?

When I think about it, the Pacers are actually not having that bad of an offseason. We added some solid shooters and some nice backups to complement our pretty talented squad. What I think that we all seem to be forgetting is that after the trade we were playing good basketball. Our offense was scoring very well and our defense wasn't half bad either (that was until the horrible 11-game losing streak). I really think that we could contend in the Eastern Conference if we continue to play at the level that we were playing at before the losing streak.

J.O. is not only a class act but an outstanding player. I am excited about the new look, but moreso about the new coaching staff. A large part of the problem over the past two years is a slow, predictable offense with little or no threat from deep. A quick hitting offense with J.O. inside, Daniels slashing and Rush hitting threes will be all any team in the East can handle. Dont give up yet, Pacers fans. This will be the best season for at least three years.

I like J.O. but this depending on one guy has to stop. J.O. has been on the brink of a great player for 3 or 4 years, but can't quite get over the hump. Correct me if I’m wrong, but J.O is going to make $20 million this year! That can’t be good for the team! He wants another superstar player, but I haven’t heard him want to renegotiate his contract! He wants to be traded, but at what cost to the team?

Subject: If Pacers Want to Win, J.O. Must Stay

We need J.O., the reason being he's the one superstar with experience on the team. If we want to go get that ring right now, then we need him to stay. If we don't want to win a ring now, then he should leave.

Subject: Without a Big Move, J.O. Could Leave

The Pacers do need to make a big move. I remember Jermaine saying that if the Pacers are rebuilding, he wants out. What the Pacers are doing now doesn't even resemble rebuilding, so why is he staying? The Pacers need to get a player that is not an underachiever with a huge contract. The Pacers have a good shot at the playoffs right now, but if we all want a championship, something big has to happen.

Subject: Small Moves Nice, but Big Move Necessary

Right now the Pacers are doing a good job at making small moves, but I would rather see them make one reasonable and exciting trade that shows the fans that they want to do more than just win games. They should do something that shows that they want to get to the NBA Finals and bring a trophy back home.

Subject: More Cautious than Optimistic

Last year's offseason, the Pacers went out and got athletic players to run the court and defend. However, none of them could shoot. It did not work, so they traded starting-caliber talent and headaches for nice quiet guys who if not for their horrible contracts would have made a nice solid bench. This offseason they have picked up shooters. However, because of previous gross mismanagement they had to settle for third-stringers and castoffs and that includes the coach. With a new coach, a new offensive scheme, a new defensive scheme, and new players, there will not be any more chemistry this season than last season. Be cautious, because every local media outlet will be trying to sell the "new-look Pacers" but we have seen what that has gotten us in the past. I hope all of this works out and I am proved wrong but if things don't further change at least we have a shot at getting Eric Gordon in next year's draft. That is, unless Larry wants to trade the pick for another European player that will never set foot inside of an NBA arena. Be optimistic, but be cautious, we have been sold this bill of goods before.

Subject: Pacers Must Overachieve to Succeed

Before we get too enamored with the intriguing possibilities of adding a third-string point guard and an NBA castoff shooter, who I really like by the way, let's remember what it will take to raise a “50-60 percent” talent team, (our win-loss record for the past few years) to a 70-80 percent win efficiency. It starts at the top with a commitment to excellence. It’s taken a few years but I can see Donnie and Larry sifting through the organization to achieve a winning team culture. Then, coaching provides a framework for success: discipline, vision, fun. The result is an overachieving team with an identity that becomes a tradition. This is what people want to be a part of. This is what sets Indiana basketball apart from the rest.

If Kareem and Travis can consisently hit from deep (and I’m confident they can) then our inside-out game will certainly accomplish the goal of getting Jermaine single coverage in the low post. Larry makes a lot of sense here since we haven’t had a consistent 3-point shooter that other defenses have respected. And quite frankly I watched Kareem Rush for his short stint in L.A. and he’s got the touch! He may be a bit of a head case but this could be his last shot at furthering his career in the NBA so I don’t see him screwing this up. The Pacers saw something in his personality several years ago in the draft and I’m hoping with what he experienced in the last few years, that he has matured and can stay in the NBA. Kareem, this is it! We expected this role from Sarunas and that didn’t work, but you and Travis have NBA experience and you know the drill. I admit that I’ve been real tough on the Pacers over the last couple of years but I like the new coach, the addition of these players and how they will blend in with the talent we already have on the roster. I am looking forward to purchasing an NBA League Pass for the first time in two years to watch this new squad.

Subject: Low-Profile Moves Make Sense

You do have to like the Pacers' strategy of avoiding the big hyped trade involving O'Neal for Bynum or someone and trying to acquire some people with a couple of years under their belt who might develop into pieces that the team needs. While it would have been nice if the Pacers had gotten Acie Law or someone similar in the draft, lottery picks take a while to develop and many don't develop at all (including whatever ones the Pacers might get next year if they have a bad year.) The Pacers are not going to be driven by a star like Kobe, LeBron or even Duncan. They need to be a team of depth, teamwork and for some of these other people to get better and more consistent (Granger, Williams, Diogu, or Daniels are the most likely candidates) -- more like Detroit than L.A. Three good players and decent role players willing to put out gives you a playoff contender if people stay healthy. People the Pacers can acquire obviously weren't all-pros in the past and aren't all-pros on paper, but a smart GM can pick players who work out. Unfortunately Murphy and Dunleavy are overpaid but they aren't terrible players. Last year's Pacers did not have enough and certainly did not have the right coach for the team they had. But things don't have to be as bad as most people seem to think think they will.

I think the additions for the Pacers were great, exactly what they've needed and I believe it does put them back in the playoffs. Missing the playoffs for the first time in 10 years doesn't make a good team totally disappear. Most people are forgetting only a few short years ago the Pacers were preseason picks to win the title. Although many things have happened, I believe this team is still seriously chasing the title. They have a good roster and may not win this year, but should make the playoffs. The Pacers are good, and with the young players they have, should be good for a long time. They are definitely a playoff team.

Subject: Don't Trade Diogu, Pair him with Jermaine

Trading Ike Diogu would be a huge mistake. I have the opposite feeling, being that I don't think the Pacers really know what type of talent they have with him. I vividly remember one play Ike had against the Heat at the end of last season. He posted up Shaq and faked one way, came back the other and lofted a beautiful fade away right over him (who is a good 6 inches taller and 60 pounds heavier than Ike). This play told me a lot. Nobody posts Shaq up, but Ike had the confidence, and more importantly, the skill to do so. He proceeded to score about 10 impressive, hard-earned points that game but still only got about eight minutes of playing time. I submitted a question a few months back when the season was almost over in which I proposed the idea of playing Ike and Jermaine together. I highly question Jermaine's offensive efficiency because as a post-up big man, he really has a poor shooting percentage. Ike's offensive efficiency with Jermaine's defensive dominance (something that would be missed more than people think if here were traded) would be a great tandem in the frontcourt. They did this only once last season that I saw (against the Grizzlies) and the two of them completely dominated, playing off the attention that both command around the rim. Bring Troy's shooting and Foster's great overall play in the second unit, and that is a very complete complement of big men.

Subject: Signings Make Sense, but Much Work to be Done

Just want to say that the last few additions we've made to the team make sense both in basketball terms and financial terms. We have addressed our shooting woes and have not spent much money doing so. Although I think our team will be better than what most people think, I dont see us getting higher than a six seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. A few concerns I have are that we still don't have a point guard that can defend a quick scoring point guard, which can cause problems because a quick point guard can get around Jamaal and Diener to score or create scoring opportunities for others. Another thought is that if we are trying to play a little more up-tempo, I think we should have matched the offer for Maceo Baston. Even though he didn't play much last year, he was probably our best finisher in transition. I still don't see how we are going to play up-tempo at all with the players on the roster currently. Daniels and maybe Granger are the only guys on our team that can