Fri Jun 20 09:35:53 2008

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Indiana Pacers 2008 Draft Preview

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(Sports Network) - The Indiana Pacers need help in the backcourt and should be able to address that need with the 11th overall pick in the first round of the 2008 NBA Draft.

Eric Gordon of Indiana and UCLA's Russell Westbrook would work if one of them is available for the Pacers to select. However, there is a good chance both could be gone as their stock has risen. DJ Augustin of Texas may be the choice if Indiana decides to go the point guard rout.

Thirty-year-old forward Jermaine O'Neal did not opt out of his contract to become an unrestricted free agent, and will most likely have a smaller role in Indiana's game plan. The 6-11 O'Neal averaged 13.6 points and 6.7 rebounds in just 42 games this past season. His production has gone down and his playing time will probably as well.

Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavy Jr. had the best seasons of their careers. Granger led Indiana in scoring (19.6 ppg), while Dunleavy averaged 19.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists.

The Pacers will explore trading some of their players. Besides O'Neal, big man Troy Murphy and point guard Jamaal Tinsley are on the block. The front office would like to steer the team in a new direction with Granger and Dunleavy leading the way.

2007-08 Results: 36-46, did not qualify for playoffs.

Key Player(s): Marquis Daniels (Forward), Travis Diener (Guard), Ike Diogu (Forward), Mike Dunleavy Jr. (Forward), Jeff Foster (Center), Danny Granger (Forward), Troy Murphy (Center/Forward), Jermaine O'Neal (Forward), Kareem Rush (Guard), Jamaal Tinsley (Guard), Shawne Williams (Forward).

Team Needs: Consistent outside shooters, shooting guard, depth in the backcourt.

Draft picks: 1st round (11th overall), 2nd round (41st overall).