Myles Turner in 2018 was adamant about his role in Indiana telling the Indy Star “I can’t see myself anywhere else.”
Since his arrival as a No. 11 first-round pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, the Texas Longhorn had promise and now huge expectations from fans.
Turner for the last few months couldn’t ignore trade rumors due to his lack of aggressiveness in the post. The finesse big man last season averaged 12.1 points per game, 2.1 blocks and shot 34 percent from the three-point line.
In a post-game TV interview last December, Turner had some words for Indiana fans who didn’t request for him to be traded after a 105-102 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.
“Shout out to the real Indiana fans” Turner told media outlets, via Indy Star.
34 percent is moderate and with at least four shot attempts, Turner sinks those uncontested shots when his feet is set.
Indianapolis is a small market and Turner without question is the Pacers best defender at will. His ability to anticipate the shot setting his feet to rise and reject layups are detrimental. Turner hasn’t received his credit as a big who finished top three in block shots the last few seasons.
During the 2018-19 season, Turner led the league in blocked shots yet was snubbed out of Defensive Player of the year by Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert.
This upcoming season after a unexpected bubble site will reveal what kind of game Turner will bring as regular home sites are the ideal location.
Developing As A Low-Post Aggressive Player
Down low on the block on offense isn’t Turner’s game like 2021 Hall of Fame inductees Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan. He’s a polished center who often steps outside the perimeter for shots or setting screens.
The 250-pound slim big doesn’t have the muscle to contain a healthy Joel Embid, Anthony Davis or Giannis Antetokounmpo. On defense, Turner is active and can chase down guards timing the blocked shot. His defense has improved but he’s a big comfortable with his footwork and skill-set on offense.
All-star and teammate Domantas Sabonis makes up for what Turner lacks in the post. A strong forward who plays bully ball and can score in the pick and roll. Sabonis left the NBA bubble in July for treatment of plantar fasciitis in his left foot.
Expect for Turner to drive to the post against small-ball teams and settle for high-arc three-point jump shots off the pick and pop. Trading Turner was a no under former head coach Nate McMillan who was fired after two back-to-back first round sweeps in the playoffs. Nate Bjorkgren took over as the new head coach for the Pacers and the team announced the addition of Kaleb Canales as an assistant per ESPN.
Bjrorkgen should have something up his sleeve if he wants to mold Turner’s game into a dominant player. Turner style of play is perfect for the Pacers and he doesn’t need to play with his back to the basket to impact the game.
Turner played 62 games last season and with the nagging injuries he suffered, he’ll be prepared to play the entire 72-game schedule. The heart and soul of the Pacers will enter his sixth season in the NBA. Turner is in his second year on a four year $72 million contract which will be up after 2023.
For Turner’s defensive highlights this past season and previous workout, click on the next page.