The return of swingman Mike Dunleavy is expected to greatly improve the movement of the Pacers' offense.

Dunleavy made his season debut on Friday in a loss to the Mavericks. He missed most of last season with a lingering knee issue.

His first basket came on a backdoor layup, something Indiana coach Jim O'Brien wants to see more of.

"I can count on one hand how many backdoor layups we've had this year, and last year it was a staple for us," O'Brien said. "We're trying to re-establish our movement game, which is one that starts with the fact that we'd rather pass than dribble.

"Michael personifies the type of movement we want. It doesn't have to do with blinding speed. It has to be purposeful movement, which is what he's very, very good at."

Dunleavy will be limited to 20 minutes for the foreseeable future, but the 13 points in 16 minutes he had against Dallas showcased his potential impact.

"He's constantly moving, so he can create without the ball in his hands, which is what you need," teammate Danny Granger said. "And he brings another shooter, which we really need. And he's a veteran, so he knows what he's doing.

"A lot of players kind of beg for the ball or get caught up standing in one spot. Mike's constantly moving, and his movement makes other people move. He gets other people shots and makes the offense flow better."