Bring Nesmith and Toppin Back No Sooner than Mid February

My thought is that, tanking or contending (and I don't believe, no disrespect Facci, that the 'ship has sailed' for the season), we should bring AA and Obi back later rather than sooner.

First, if the Pacers are really contenders, let's give Mathurin his chance as starter to prove that he can run a team. Even if he eventually goes to the Nets, Pelicans, or Wizards, he wants to prove his "dawg," that he can potentially be a leader ala Donovan Mitchell on the Cavs.

Second, we really benefitted from Aaron's extended time out last year, with the energy that helped make the team dominant over the last two months. Even then, with a nearly perfect run through the playoffs, he was playing hurt by the time the Finals rolled around. He just plays that hard.

Same probably applies to "ironman" Obi. In addition, it will be less awkward and more impactful if the two hit the floor running with a couple weeks of each other. Pressure will be off, and if Indy is within 5 games of the play-in, expect them to go for it.

If the Pacers wind up tanking, why not give the new players their full run? No need risking injury, have Aaron and Obi ease in soon enough to get some meaningful reps, but spare their knees for next year with Haliburton back….