On Sunday, the Indiana Pacers' 119-110 victory over the Miami Heat helped their record and inspired an all-time post-game presser. Amid a so-so 2024-25 season from Myles Turner, much criticism falls at the Pacers' starting center's feet. However, Turner took the opportunity after a much-needed win to answer to critics, but more importantly, himself, as he took accountability for the 6-7 start.
Turner's best game since the Pacers beat the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center on Nov. 4 earned him a podium spot. Instead of talking about the win and how great he played, as he scored a game-high 34 points on 14-23 shooting from the field and 5-8 from 3, the Pacers center accepted fault.
"Publicly, I haven't liked my attitude the last few days," Turner said. "You've gotta be an energy giver and take accountability, but I feel like I've been kind of an energy sucker, kinda been in my own feelings a little bit...that type of (bleep) is just negative. Obviously, it was a great game just growing as a leader, growing as a man. You can't put that stuff out into the universe, but I'm gonna hold myself accountable for that."
Regarding energy, Turner's defensive advanced metrics speak for themselves. Using Synergy Sports' database, Turner's admittance of egotistical shortcomings rears its ugly head in his defensive numbers. According to Synergy Sports, Turner is a below-average defender for the 2024-25 season.
Furthermore, grabbing rebounds is equal parts anticipation and exerting energy. Turner's 6.8 average is the lowest since the 2020-21 season. Turner has five games of five or fewer rebounds for the 2024-25 season. Turner is the best defender on the Pacers, but because he's not playing at full energy, such a revelation spells trouble for a team that ranks 23rd in defensive rating.
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However, Turner's decision to take responsibility and share such a vulnerable moment with the media speaks volumes about what he wrestled mentally in private. Perhaps Turner's "coming to Jesus moment" alludes to a turning point for the 6-7 Pacers.
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