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I'm seeing both sides of this having been on the "Vic" side of the debate. I've felt almost ridiculed for suggesting that Vic is every bit the player Paul George is (this season and perhaps going forward). I understand the historical statistics, but I also understand trajectory, attitude and organizational fit. I've almost heard the laughter and scoffing while reading some posts here opinion that Vic is not possibly in the same plateau as PG even as the statistics continue to bear out the opinion that he's caught George, who is likely on the back side of the apex of his talent. I've tried to keep my comments on the level and non-confrontational, but I've seen posts on both sides of the issue that appeared to belittle opposing views and IMO, Scott may be reacting to that vibe...or maybe he's just having a bad week. Probably nothing that a big win in Bloomington tonight can't cure.

Well, it kinda is his job...

If PG is the top 10-15 player that some claim it should make no difference what conf he plays in.

+1 Yes, Pop is fantastic. I'm a big fan. Interesting that both Pop and Stevens are native Hoosiers. Nick Saban and Bill Belichick are in the mix for best coaches too. Brad is younger but his track record, and playing with the hand dealt to him, is unreal. It's not a coincidence when success inevitably follows you around after awhile.

It's still early, but as of right now I'd put B Stevens as the up and coming Pop -- Pop's the best coach in the NBA, imo, and has been for years, but Stevens is looking like he could step into those very big shoes. Truly an outstanding coach and highly regarded by his players. And yes, the East is going to be fun to watch develop.

I think the IU fan base gave up on Stevens as a realistic option 2-3 years ago, and practically no one mentioned his name as we got Archie. But, the clamoring back in the day was justified. I always liked Larry in the 80's but the Celtics are hardly my team. When you take into account what he has had to work with, Stevens is probably the best at coaching any sport, any level. Smart, knows how to handle players, great tactician, no dysfunction (which is practically a miracle by NBA ego standards). I have never heard a peep of any bad thing said about Stevens by anyone. It's remarkable that we have not heard of any disgruntled player going after him, etc. He's obviously highly respected in all circles. As far as the East, it is going to be very interesting to see how things develop. Regardless of Stevens, I am not sure that Philly isn't the organization with the highest upside in the longer term, if Embiid's feet and legs can hold up consistently. And the Greek Freak has potential to be the best player in the league. It's insane what he can do. Big time players get calls in the playoffs.

Victor Oladipo has a better singing voice than Paul George. https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nba/pacers/2017/11/28/victor-oladipo-singing-pacers-locker-room-cracks-up-lance-stephenson/900711001/

Believe it or not I am aware of how the All Star teams are selected. In your first message about this topic yourself PGis clearly a top 10 player. I disagreed with that. If he is top 10 then there is no excuse to not make an all star team regardless of conference I know the bulk of great talent is in the West. I am too lazy to look it up but when was the last time a healthy top 10 player did not make the All Star team? Based on all that has been said does one assume then that PG only made the All Star team because the East is weak. If so then it's hard to say he is top 10 or 15. I am not comparing Vic to PG. But I would take a hungry combo of Vic and Sabonis that play like they want to be here over a player that clearly stated he did not want to. At times last year his play reflected that attitude. In his defense the team Larry built had a lot to do with that in my opinion.

Have to think he's going to get a shot with the Lakers at some point soon. What's not to like about a 6'11" guy that can dribble, shoot from deep, finish at the rim, rebound, etc. Obviously needs work on defense, but he's a very skilled big that fits into today's NBA game really well.