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Have you ever wondered how the modern NBA offenses stack up against the legendary teams of the past? The Indiana Pacers, currently making waves in the Eastern Conference playoffs, provide a fascinating case study. As they stand one win away from reaching the NBA Finals, the question arises: Are they the best offensive team since the "Showtime" Lakers of the 1980s?
The Pacers have demonstrated an electric style of play reminiscent of the high-flying and fast-paced Lakers, who dominated the league with their showmanship and scoring ability. To put it bluntly, Indiana's offense is a force to be reckoned with. Averaging 116.0 points per game over their last two postseasons, the Pacers are currently outpacing the historic marks set by the Lakers, who averaged 118.3 points during their celebrated runs.
In the ongoing postseason, the Pacers have upped the ante even more, posting an impressive 118.5 points per game. This achievement ties them with the legendary 2017 and 1987 Lakers as the only teams to reach such scoring heights in a single postseason. The comparison doesn't stop there—this season's Pacers squad has not only been scoring at will but also displaying remarkable efficiency. With a field goal percentage of 50.4%, they have the best shooting percentage across two postseasons since the 1987-88 Lakers.
Using various metrics, let's break down why the Pacers are drawing comparisons to one of the greatest teams in NBA history:
| Statistic | Pacers (2024-2025) | Showtime Lakers (1980s) |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 118.5 | 118.3 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 50.4% | 50.9% |
| Assists Per Game | 29.3 | N/A |
| Games with 30+ Assists | 16 | N/A |
Beyond just scoring, the Pacers have showcased an unselfish style of play. Averaging 29.3 assists per game, they are leading the pack when it comes to ball movement, a hallmark characteristic of the "Showtime" teams. Indiana has achieved 16 games with at least 30 assists, setting a standard not seen from any other teams in the playoffs.
Furthermore, the Pacers have made history by winning three postseason games when trailing by at least seven points with less than a minute left in the fourth quarter or overtime—a feat no other team has managed since 1998. This knack for comebacks only adds to their impressive résumé as they approach the Finals.
Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers' leading scorer, brings a modern flair to the game that echoes the brilliance of Magic Johnson. His ability to make plays, score under pressure, and demonstrate exceptional court vision positions him as a key player not just for the Pacers, but in the entire league. He represents the future while still evoking nostalgia for the glory days of basketball.
While the Oklahoma City Thunder are being heralded as favorites thanks to a dominant defensive strategy, the Pacers' offensive juggernaut makes them a compelling challenger. Imagine a matchup where Indiana's high-scoring ability meets the Thunder's defensive prowess—basketball fans would certainly not want to miss that showdown.
As the Pacers continue their playoff journey, history is being rewritten with every game. They may not yet be on the same pedestal as the "Showtime" Lakers, but the numbers suggest they are undeniably in the same conversation. If they can capture the championship, their offensive legacy might be cemented forever.
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