Indiana Pacers prepare for trade maneuvers with T.J. McConnell and Obi Toppin on the market
The Indiana Pacers have emerged as a team to keep an eye on as the trade deadline approaches. With February 5 looming, there’s a strong likelihood that the Pacers will part ways with at least one player, if not more. A discussion among the Indiana Pacers staff has led to speculation about which player might be the most probable to move.
Analyzing the Roster Dynamics
Currently, the Pacers have only two players on their roster earning more than $20 million. One of those, Tyrese Haliburton, is regarded as untouchable following his impressive performances. The other, Pascal Siakam, is likely to remain unless the Pacers receive an offer they can’t refuse. In contrast, younger talents like Andrew Nembhard and Aaron Nesmith appear to be cornerstones for the team’s future.
This sets the stage for T.J. McConnell and Obi Toppin, both likely candidates for relocation. Toppin, a pending free agent, has a contract worth $14 million, while McConnell’s extension pays him $11 million. Despite McConnell’s significant contributions to the Pacers, his experience and skill set could be enticing for contenders looking to bolster their playoff rosters. As such, he may be positioned to fetch a promising draft pick or a younger player in return.
A Shift in Strategy Amid Adversity
The Pacers find themselves in a transitional phase, exacerbated by Haliburton’s absence due to a torn Achilles. This injury has hastened the team’s descent to the lower rungs of the Eastern Conference standings, effectively positioning them as sellers at this year’s trade deadline. However, the decision on who to trade is complicated. With many players either sidelined or deemed too valuable for a trade, the roster’s balance is delicate.
Among those who might be considered expendable is Jarace Walker, a third-year forward. If the Pacers aren’t satisfied with Walker’s development before the deadline, they may entertain trade offers that could provide them with additional assets.
Financial Considerations and Trade Potential
The financial landscape for the Pacers is heavily influenced by their commitments to Haliburton and Siakam. Given this context, major shake-ups appear unlikely. Yet, if the Pacers are inclined to adjust their payroll or change their trajectory following their first NBA Finals appearance in 25 years, McConnell and wing Bennedict Mathurin emerge as the most plausible candidates for trade.
Mathurin’s rookie deal is nearing its conclusion, adding a layer of urgency to decisions surrounding his future. Meanwhile, McConnell’s combination of experience and proven ability to energize a team off the bench makes him a valuable asset for playoff-bound franchises.
As the Pacers navigate this complicated landscape, the upcoming weeks will be critical in shaping their roster and the direction of the franchise. The trade deadline could mark a pivotal moment for a team striving to balance immediate needs with long-term aspirations.
