Pacers Resolutions
By TYLER SMITH
ISL Editor
INDIANAPOLIS — One year ago, the Pacers said “Good Riddance” to a rough 2021, which was capped off by a last-second loss to the Chicago Bulls. Fast forward to New Years Eve 2022, and the franchise is thankfully in a much better place. But there are still plenty of uncertainties and questions for several players and what role they may or may not have with this team in 2023 and beyond. What things might be resolved for these players in the new year?
•Myles Turner– One way or another, Myles Turner’s future in Indy will finally be “resolved” in 2023. Turner has been involved in trade rumors for years and will continue to be until a trade finally comes to fruition, or until he signs an extension. Turner is in the midst of his best season, averaging 16.1 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. Playing as the lone five, in a contract year, and with a dynamic point guard has been a largely successful formula for the 8th-year veteran. You can make a case in any direction for Turner’s future with Indiana, and you’d probably have a strong argument. There will be lot of risk in giving Turner a big extension. There will also be a lot of risk in losing him.
•Tyrese Haliburton– Indiana’s emerging star set some major resolutions for himself coming into this season, and he has delivered. He leads the NBA in assists. He leads all guards in double-doubles. And most importantly, he continues to elevate his teammates and as Rick Carlisle said recently, has “completely changed the trajectory of this franchise.” Sorry, Wally, but Haliburton looks poised to make his first (of many) All-Star appearances in 2023.
•Buddy Hield- He was seen by many as the “throw-in” piece of the Haliburton trade, and was viewed as a definite trade chip early this season. What about now? I’m not so sure. Hield leads the NBA in 3’s and is shooting 42.7% from deep. He has an undeniable bond with Haliburton and loves playing under Rick Carlisle. He’s under contract for another season, and might just be playing himself into being part of the 2023-2024 team. It’s hard to say when this one might be resolved.
•Bennedict Mathurin– One of the biggest steals of the NBA Draft, Mathurin’s resolution probably includes winning 6th Man of the Year. But when will his future role be resolved? The question on everyone’s mind- When will Mathurin enter the starting lineup? And when will he earn the trust of his coaches to finish games on the court? In Carlisle’s defense, Hield and Nembhard have done a nice job closing games themselves. Mathurin’s time will come, and it’s going to be beautiful.
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•Chris Duarte– Not long ago, Duarte looked like a long-term lock for this team, and he still may be. But with the emergence of the other guards, along with some injury issues, does he fit the long term plan? Will he be part of trade packages? If he stays, is he best suited for the 6th man role? His resolution will depend on a number of factors, including how the Pacers choose to answer some of the other questions I’ve already posed.
•TJ McConnell- The only TJ from the trio that remains: McConnell’s future in Indy is uncertain. He still has some value and brings a veteran presence to the group. He’s still averaging 5 points and 4 assists per game in 17 minutes of action. On the flip side, the Pacers are in excellent hands at the point guard position with Haliburton and Nembhard, and McConnell doesn’t always fit with this group. The Pacers might also prefer moving some money, and McConnell makes 8.4 million per year.
•The draft picks– Before the season started, Kevin Pritchard said he’d “love to have about 10 more” draft picks. As it currently stands, the Pacers are expected to own three 1st-rounders next season and two in the second round as well. Will Pritchard still be looking to add more for next season and/or future years? Or will the Pacers use some of this draft capital to add to the team? Either way, it’s great for the Pacers to have these options. This is one resolution we’ll be keeping a close eye on at the Trade Deadline and next summer.
