A couple of years ago, the Indiana Pacers believed they had this position set for, as long as Paul George was around. But things changed when George suffered a gruesome leg injury. That coupled with the new-look team means they will have someone else holding down the three spot. Unless of course Paul George gets pounded in the more physical four spot, in which case Frank Vogel and company may have to reassess the situation.

C.J. Miles: Starting Small Forward

The obvious starter in the current situation is C.J. Miles, who is possibly the most lethal player the Pacers have from outside. He struggled some last year, but Miles and Rodney Stuckey were also the only ones who could produce points consistently over the season. With better pieces around him, he should thrive with easy looks from beyond the arc. But there is also the issue that he is not a great defender. While he can hold his own, the three spot provides some tough matchups. Overall, Miles should prosper from better spacing and a more offensive system. 

Solomon Hill: Backup Small Forward

Now things get interesting; the two other players most likely to feature at this position are going to be Chase Budinger and Solomon Hill. Hill is still the more likely of the two to start the season as the backup. Hill knows the Pacers better, and Budinger has been hurt. Hill was solid for the Pacers while George was out, as he is a solid defender and has shown flashes of scoring capability. He is a tough player who will give it all he's got while he's out there, even though he is not the most talented player. 

Chase Budinger: Third-String Small Forward

Chase Budinger is an interesting case. Formerly known as one of the most vicious dunkers in the league, he had surgeries that have left him with less bounce but arguably a better overall game. Budinger has struggled with injuries since joining the Pacers from the Timberwolves, but when he has practiced, Vogel says he has been one of the best shooters from long range. Budinger has never been a very good defender, but he is athletic, and on this team, it probably won't take long for him to improve. Budinger is unlikely to start the year with a large amount of minutes, but if he plays well and stays healthy, he could surpass Hill for the backup spot at small forward. 

Paul George: Question Mark/Glenn Robinson: Sparingly Used At Small Forward 

Now there are some question marks at this position, Paul George and Glenn Robinson III. If Paul George cannot make it through stretches of games at the four or if the system isn't working, then we could see him slotted back in at the small forward position, which would bring plenty of change to this position and the lineup. Robinson is a young player, but has impressed so far. He is more likely to gain minutes at shooting guard than at small forward, but he may still see some minutes at the three, if there are injuries or a blowout. 

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