NBA Notes: Pacers, Pascal Siakam, Kings, Russell Westbrook, Mavericks
Pacers Struggle but Stay Positive
Pacers forward Pascal Siakam remains optimistic despite a wave of injuries hitting the team. He admitted the situation borders on absurd but insists on staying upbeat.
“It’s almost laughable,” Siakam said. “As bad as it’s getting, I know there’s going to be another side of it.”
The Pacers’ roster looks like a patchwork unit at the moment. Aaron Nesmith is taking significantly more shots than ever, while Jarace Walker’s attempts per game have nearly tripled compared to his rookie year.
“We have a lot of guys playing unusual positions,” coach Rick Carlisle said. “But the spirit is good.”
Despite their 1–6 record, the Pacers’ effort can’t be questioned. Last season, they also started slow at 11–15 but fought their way to the NBA Finals Game 7, showing resilience under pressure.
Westbrook’s Denver Return Turns Emotional
Russell Westbrook made a fiery return to Denver, nearly taking over the game with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists in a 130–124 loss. Afterward, he candidly spoke about his disappointment with how things ended with the Nuggets.
“They didn’t want me back,” Westbrook said.
Westbrook, who had signed a minimum deal with Denver last summer, appeared in 75 regular-season games and contributed during the playoffs. However, when his player option surfaced, he claimed the team advised him not to exercise it.
Author’s Summary
The Pacers battle adversity with determination as Pascal Siakam leads with optimism, while Russell Westbrook’s tense Denver return exposes the tough reality of changing team loyalties in the NBA.