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INDIANAPOLIS -- With the preseason complete, the Indiana Pacers are turning their attention to the regular-season opener against the New Orleans Pelicans, which will feature a reunion with former teammate Bennedict Mathurin. On Day 9 of training camp, several players and coaches addressed the media, covering topics ranging from the Pelicans' offseason additions to the Pacers' team culture.
Carlisle on Mosley's Impact in New Orleans
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle shared his thoughts on the Pelicans hiring Jamahl Mosley as an assistant coach. Carlisle and Mosley spent seven seasons together in Dallas before Mosley left to become the head coach in Orlando. "Jamahl Mosley is a great coach. He's a culture changer," Carlisle said. "He changed it in Orlando and they became one of the best defensive teams and one of the most physical teams in the league." Carlisle believes Mosley can replicate that success in New Orleans, noting the Pelicans' offensive talent. "He's on his way to doing that with New Orleans," Carlisle added.
Nembhard on Rebuilding Chemistry with the Starters
Andrew Nembhard discussed the challenge of re-establishing chemistry with the starting lineup after a year without Tyrese Haliburton. "We haven't really felt that group for a while. It's been like a year or so," Nembhard said. "It's just like creating that chemistry. A lot of guys can do a lot of different things out there, so just trying to be aggressive but also fit in at the same time." The Pacers' starters were a bright spot in the preseason, but injuries limited their time together. They played only one game as a full unit, with various players missing time. Carlisle often used Kelly Oubre Jr. with the starters, but the group remained effective. With Haliburton running the offense, the chemistry is expected to return in time.
Jackson Adjusts to Backup Point Guard Role
Quenton Jackson, primarily a shooting guard throughout his career, has been asked to play more point guard with T.J. McConnell out. "I would say all that kind of started when I got here. Other organizations I was kind of more of a two, which I mean I am a two but I can play the one," Jackson said. "I just kind of stick next to guys like Tyrese, T.J., kind of pick their brain about certain things on the floor." Jackson outlined his responsibilities running the second unit: "Get us in the flow, get us in the offense, make sure everybody get touches. And then make sure that energy is still on the floor and make sure we're picking up on defense too."
Nance Jr. Praises Pacers Culture
Larry Nance Jr., a well-traveled veteran, had high praise for the Pacers' culture. "A lot of places talk about culture, but this, this is a culture," Nance said. "This is an incredible organization. People here just made me feel super welcomed. They are in here early on off days and they work hard." Nance also commended the front office, coaching staff, and players for embracing him and other newcomers like Kelly Oubre Jr. "They really do a good job of ingratiating us," he said.
Looking Ahead to Mathurin Matchup
Nembhard and Jackson also shared their thoughts on facing Bennedict Mathurin on Wednesday. Jackson, known for his colorful responses, joked about guarding his former teammate. "I don't really need experience to guard Benn. It's not really that hard. Every time he catches the ball, it's to rock jab you, drive and spin off you. So, I'm narrow in on all of that," Jackson said with a smile. He added, "He's going to have to find a different game plan if he thinks he's going to attack me. That's my dog, man. I love him. Great competitor. So, I'm looking forward to going at him." Nembhard was more measured: "Yeah, got a good relationship with him coming in the league at the same time and being from Canada. Got a lot of love for him. It's going to be exciting to go up against a competitor like that." Despite the tepid response, Nembhard is known not to shy away from trash talk when the two face off.