Big Boost for Indiana Pacers as Star Player Projected to Return Ahead of NBA Restart in Orlando Bubble

The Indiana Pacers were once a feared team when Reggie Miller led them with a fearless attitude. Fast forward to now, the Pacers are a decent team but lack the ability to drive further past the first round of the playoffs. This year, there are chances for them to push for a better run, but will their talented guard Victor Oladipo make a return? 

The Pacers reached back to back conference finals in 2013 and 2014 when Paul George was a part of the team. But all that is in the past and now the team has the potential to make a good playoff run. Though they may not be the favorites in the East, they still have to give it a shot. 

Victor Oladipo, who returned from his injury in January this year, decided not to participate on the restart. The 28-year-old was unsure about his fitness levels and took a safe bet by opting out of playing in the Orlando bubble. 

Without Oladipo, the Pacers might face some struggles when the season restarts. Oladipo only played 13 games upon making his return in 2020, but has been an important part of the Indiana Pacers for a few years. However, the two-time All-Star has traveled with the team inside the bubble, even though he won’t be playing. That has raised some speculations. 

Will the Indiana Pacers see Oladipo declaring to play in the bubble?

The Pacers did not take away Oladipo’s name off the roster. It was expected that he would be along with the team, attending their games and provide his moral support. But, we have been hearing much more positive news about his situation. 

In a clip posted by ‘Stadium,’ Shams Charania discusses the current state of Oladipo’s participation with the team. “He has been participating fully in five on five scrimmages and all of the practices,” Charania informed. “So he’s been a full contributing member of the Indiana Pacers’ plan so far.”

“There is optimism around the team that he will be able to play in Orlando once the season resumes,” he continued. Moreover, Brandon D. Williams, former assistant GM of the Sacramento Kings weighed in on how the Pacers might value Oladipo if he thinks about overturning his decision. 

“They [Pacers] are not willing to concede this year. They’re sitting in the fifth spot right now, with a chance to surge if they get him [Oladipo] back. So this is huge,” Williams added. With all the brimming hope of positivity around Oladipo’s return, will he be thinking of making a comeback and help his team in the NBA bubble?