The mysterious disappearance of Roy Hibbert

Amber Alert Amber Alert **Center 7'2" Roy Hibbert has disappeared, if you have seen him, please notify David West and the Indiana Pacers**Amber Alert Amber Alert

Courtesy of blacksportsonline.com

Anyone who watched Roy Hibbert last year against the Miami Heat in the playoffs is most likely scratching their head trying to figure out what's wrong with the 7'2" center.  Although he was never the best offensive player, Hibbert always provided a defensive presence for the Pacers.  

During the regular season Hibbert helped the Pacers hold the Wizard's to 66 points, the lowest total for any team in the NBA this year.  In fact Hibbert played a huge role in holding the Wizards to their two lowest scoring outputs during the regular season.  Watching Hibbert purposely commit fouls in the playoffs in order to get out the game lets me know that as of right now he has all but given up on his team.  Mentally he looks defeated, looking over to the sideline after ever mistake almost as if he is asking to come out.  Its getting really hard to watch. 

 

 What I don't understand is why they don't sit him.  The Pacers were out rebounded 53-36.  At this point, the Pacers would be better off if they reduced Hibberts minutes significantly.  They should treat his poor play the same way they would treat a player getting injured.  Adjust and bring him back when he is ready.   What ever happened to doing whats best for the team?

I commend Coach Vogel for sticking with the big man.  On the other hand I question his ability to make adjustments.  This can not be good for the chemistry of the team.  When the stakes are high, emotions usually run high as well.  The lack of effort displayed by Hibbert may have initially been viewed as a slump.  Now, more than likely its viewed by teammates as a complete lack of effort.  Vogel is at risk of losing his team if he continues to try and revive his big man.  

Starting Scola or Mahimi(who played poorly game 1), and bringing Hibbert off the bench is the best bet for the Pacers.  Anything is better than zero points and zero rebounds, that's unacceptable.  Regardless of why he is playing so poorly, Hibbert is at risk of losing everything he worked for.  

Will the real Roy Hibbert please stand up.