Schedule and National TV Snub

The Pacers have 11 national TV games but were snubbed from opening night. Season opener Oct 21 at New Orleans, home opener Oct 23 vs Dallas. NBA Cup group includes Knicks, Cavs, Sixers, Heat; final at Hinkle Fieldhouse. Preseason includes a game at Hilton Coliseum. A recent article argues the Pacers' positive head-to-head history against the Sixers and Knicks gives them a competitive advantage, adding context to the schedule and underdog narrative.