Let’s get right to the first mailbag of the year. Leave your questions and comments below.
And, as we begin 2023, I just want to say that I appreciate your support. I appreciate you following along and being part of the Fieldhouse Files community.
Lastly, I did make the executive decision to raise the cost of a subscription for the first time since launching a paywall exactly two years ago. Just $2 more per month (or $77 a year). I was at the major NBA events in 2022 — the draft lottery, draft combine, draft, summer league and G League showcase — in large part because of you.
And for you.
As always, you can reach me directly via email with any questions or concerns.
With how strong the team chemistry is, I see the fanbase mixed on if the front office should make any moves at the trade deadline. One thing’s for sure though, early rumors are tying the team to athletic power forwards, namely John Collins and Obi Toppin. Do you think there’s a spark in the smoke that the front office appears poised on making an upgrade at the position?
I continue to be befuddled by Oshae’s use in the rotation. Sometimes he goes out there and adds that energy and effort spark that either provides the jumpstarts the momentum or maintains it - but then he ends up playing 6 minutes against LAC when his size is suitable against the wings they had. I’d understand if he isn’t playing due to others being prioritized like Duarte or Benn, but he seems to be their best choice as a 4 if they are going to play undersized lineups like they have. What do you make of Oshae’s use?
I'm impressed with the maturity Myles has shown the last few years as his roles have changed and his name has been all over the rumor mill.
I suspect he'd accept a market-rate contract while the Pacers want as much time as possible to survey the league. Where do things stand with him and the front office?
He's shown himself to be crucial to the Pacers making a playoff run.
Hey Scott, I don't mind the extra $2 cost, you earn it by being at every function and giving us an inside that you can't get anywhere else. A local radio personality tells me these rumors about trading Myles and Buddy come from teams that want those two and use agents to spread it. I believe it. What do you make of Jalen Smith not starting after the Pacers guaranteed him to start if he signed?
I'm out of market (Fort Wayne). How do you think this young team has connected with the city/community so far? And what is the road map to moving out of the bottom in attendance?
As someone paying Bally's ransom, I imagine watchability is a big factor here.
Given what this team's priorities should be, do you think we might see TJM on another team after the trade deadline? Likely a contender looking for an energy PG?
Mailbag time + site update
Any updates on Theis and Jackson?
With how strong the team chemistry is, I see the fanbase mixed on if the front office should make any moves at the trade deadline. One thing’s for sure though, early rumors are tying the team to athletic power forwards, namely John Collins and Obi Toppin. Do you think there’s a spark in the smoke that the front office appears poised on making an upgrade at the position?
I continue to be befuddled by Oshae’s use in the rotation. Sometimes he goes out there and adds that energy and effort spark that either provides the jumpstarts the momentum or maintains it - but then he ends up playing 6 minutes against LAC when his size is suitable against the wings they had. I’d understand if he isn’t playing due to others being prioritized like Duarte or Benn, but he seems to be their best choice as a 4 if they are going to play undersized lineups like they have. What do you make of Oshae’s use?
I'm impressed with the maturity Myles has shown the last few years as his roles have changed and his name has been all over the rumor mill.
I suspect he'd accept a market-rate contract while the Pacers want as much time as possible to survey the league. Where do things stand with him and the front office?
He's shown himself to be crucial to the Pacers making a playoff run.
Hey Scott, I don't mind the extra $2 cost, you earn it by being at every function and giving us an inside that you can't get anywhere else. A local radio personality tells me these rumors about trading Myles and Buddy come from teams that want those two and use agents to spread it. I believe it. What do you make of Jalen Smith not starting after the Pacers guaranteed him to start if he signed?
The rotation seems to be set with Jalen and Mathurin coming off the bench. Do you see the rotation changing as the season progresses?
Do you see the pacers making a trade before the trade deadline?
I'm out of market (Fort Wayne). How do you think this young team has connected with the city/community so far? And what is the road map to moving out of the bottom in attendance?
As someone paying Bally's ransom, I imagine watchability is a big factor here.
I'm not sure if Scott has seen any of these questions?
Given what this team's priorities should be, do you think we might see TJM on another team after the trade deadline? Likely a contender looking for an energy PG?