Pacers Trade Deadline Preview: Myles Turner’s Future and Financial Considerations
As we approach the NBA trade deadline, the Indiana Pacers find themselves in an intriguing position. Their recent run of good form has changed the conversation around their trade deadline strategy. With the team currently sitting in sixth place in the Eastern Conference, the Pacers are looking more like buyers than sellers.
The most significant talking point surrounding the Pacers trade deadline plans revolves around center Myles Turner. Turner’s contract situation makes him a prime candidate for trade discussions. He cannot be extended this season and will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer. This puts the Pacers in a tricky position – do they trade him now and get assets in return, or risk losing him for nothing in free agency?
However, trading Turner isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. He fits perfectly with the team’s current style of play, especially alongside Pascal Siakam. Finding a replacement who can replicate Turner’s unique skill set would be challenging. Moreover, the Pacers recent success might make them hesitant to disrupt team chemistry.
Financial Considerations
The Pacers financial situation adds another layer of complexity to their trade deadline decisions. They’re currently close to the luxury tax threshold, which limits their flexibility in making moves. Any trade involving a player making more than Obi Toppin’s salary (around $12 million) would be complicated to execute without going over the tax line.
This financial constraint makes it more likely that the Pacers will focus on smaller moves or look for players on more manageable contracts. The team might also consider moves that help them stay under the tax line while maintaining their competitive edge.
James Wiseman: Most Likely to be Traded
While Turner’s name will dominate trade discussions, James Wiseman emerges as the most likely Pacer to be moved before the deadline. Wiseman’s minimum contract makes him an easy salary to move, and his departure would give the Pacers some much-needed financial flexibility.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pacers trade deadline strategy, tune into the Locked On Pacers podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pacers Podcast:
• Isaiah Jackson’s injury and its impact on his future contract
• The Pacers long-term financial outlook and potential extensions for young players
• Potential trade targets and how they might fit with the current roster
