So which is it? Coaching or talent?

[dirkfansince1998]

Indy only tanked on purpose this year AFTER they came out of the gates flat and couldn't perform. IND was slated to be a playoff team before the season began. They were treading water (15-28) until Turner was out for the season. After which they promptly decided to go all in on the tank and traded Sabonis. 

But it begs the question, why did a very talented IND team start the season so poorly under RC? They had the 2nd worst defense in the league.

Injuries.Warren missed the entire season. McConnell missed half of the season. Levert and Brogdon missed a lot of games. Turner´s injury was the final nail in the coffin.
They obviously didn´t rush anyone back but looking at the total amount of games played Sabonis (who was traded at the deadline) is leading the team.

Turner 42/82 games
Brogdon 36/82 games
McConnell 27/82 games
Levert 39/55 games

Bad chemistry/fit. Especially the Turner/Sabonis situation. Something they fixed.

That being said. Their inability to win close games reminded me of the Mavs in 19/20. Just couldn´t close games. 20 games into the season they had a top ten SRS and a losing record. Similar trend in Orlando.