Indiana Pacers All-Star center Roy Hibbert was having several issues in the playoffs. His scoring and rebounding took a dramatic drop and everybody was coming up with reasons as to why it was happening. There was even a rumor that Paul George slept with his girlfriend, a story George quickly shot down. Another speculated reason was the presence of Andrew Bynum.
via Steve Aschburner of NBA.com:
Center Roy Hibbert‘s ongoing tailspin coincides with Bynum’s arrival, so much that some team insiders have wondered if the move rattled Hibbert’s confidence and trust.
Through Jan. 31, Hibbert was posting his customary numbers – 12.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.5 blocks per game – for a team that was 35-10. After Bynum was signed, Hibbert averaged 9.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocks. He’s been worse in Indiana’s eight playoff games so far: 4.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.4 blocks. And the Pacers have gone 25-20.
Bringing Bynum aboard rankled Hibbert, a source told NBA.com, when coach Frank Vogel ran plays to get Bynum involved offensively that he rarely calls for Hibbert.
Yesterday it was announced that Andrew Bynum is no longer with the team after they came to a mutual agreement to end the partnership. Well Hibbert finally climbed out of his funk last night dropping 28 points, 9 rebounds and 2 blocks in the Pacers 86-82 win over the Washington Wizards. Could it be a coincidence? Maybe but I doubt anyone will see it that way.
