Hibbert's early years with the Pacers saw him gradually develop into a reliable center. By the 2011-2012 season, he had become a central figure in the Pacers' lineup, earning his first NBA All-Star selection. His performance on the defensive end was particularly noteworthy, as he became a key component of Indiana's defensive strategy. The Pacers, under head coach Frank Vogel, emphasized a strong defensive identity, and Hibbert's ability to protect the rim was instrumental in this approach.
The 2012-2013 season marked a high point in Hibbert's career. He was again selected as an All-Star and played a crucial role in leading the Pacers to the Eastern Conference Finals. During the playoffs, Hibbert's defensive skills were on full display, particularly in the series against the New York Knicks and the Miami Heat. His ability to alter shots and control the paint was a significant factor in the Pacers' deep playoff run. The series against the Heat, featuring LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, was particularly memorable, as Hibbert's performances helped push the series to seven games.
Hibbert's defensive capabilities were further recognized when he was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2014. His ability to anchor the defense and his presence in the paint were vital for the Pacers, who were consistently one of the top defensive teams in the league during his tenure.
However, as the NBA began to shift towards a more perimeter-oriented style of play, Hibbert's role and effectiveness started to decline. The 2014-2015 season saw a dip in his performance, and the Pacers missed the playoffs. In the summer of 2015, Hibbert was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, marking the end of his time in Indiana.
With the Lakers, Hibbert faced challenges adapting to a new team and system. The Lakers were in a rebuilding phase, and Hibbert's role was different from what it had been in Indiana. Despite his efforts, the team struggled, and Hibbert's numbers continued to decline. After one season in Los Angeles, he signed with the Charlotte Hornets for the 2016-2017 season. His stint with the Hornets was short-lived, as he was traded to the Denver Nuggets midway through the season. Hibbert played only a few games with the Nuggets before his career in the NBA came to an end.
Throughout his career, Hibbert was known for his defensive skills, particularly his shot-blocking and ability to protect the rim. While his offensive game was often criticized, his impact on the defensive end was undeniable during his peak years with the Pacers. His career serves as a reminder of the changing nature of the NBA and how shifts in playing style can affect players differently.
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