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Indiana Pacers 2009 Draft Preview

(Sports Network) - Like most lottery teams, the Pacers lack defensive prowess and toughness on the boards.

Indiana can score, however, averaging 105.1 points per game last season, good for fifth in the NBA. All-Star Danny Granger was the 2009 Most Improved Player, netting 25.8 points per game while Troy Murphy averaged a double- double with 14.3 points and 11.8 boards per game.

The point guard situation, with Jarrett Jack, a restricted free agent, and T.J. Ford is unsettled while Mike Dunleavy's chronic knee injury means Jim O'Brien needs help at shooting guard. Murphy also needs assistance on the boards and the bench could use a makeover.

Brandon Jennings would be a nice gamble with the 13th overall selection. The 19-year-old point guard struggled mightily overseas last year but has lottery- type skills. Like many young point guards, Jennings needs to develop a more consistent jumper so he can take advantage of his speed and ability to penetrate.

Key Players under contract: G Mike Dunleavy; G T.J. Ford; C Jeff Foster; F Danny Granger; C Roy Hibbert; F Troy Murphy; G Brandon Rush; G Jamaal Tinsley

Draft picks: 1st round (13th overall), 2nd round (52nd overall)

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