The Indiana Pacers have made a couple of moves this offseason that indicate they want to compete for a playoff spot. The Pacers rewarded their All-Star player. Additionally, the Pacers brought in a veteran that recently was part of a championship rotation.
Indiana Pacers Spend Big in NBA Free Agency
At the start of the free agency tampering period, the Indiana Pacers agreed to terms with Bruce Brown for two years, $45 million. Soon after the Pacers and their All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton agreed to a five-year extension, worth up to $260 million. The Pacers ended the season 35-47, 11th in the eastern conference, 6 games out of the play-in tournament.
Veteran Locker Room Presence
Bruce Brown had a career-high 11.5 points last season with the Denver Nuggets; shooting 48% from the field, and 35% from three-point range. Throughout his career, Brown has made the most of his playing time with his energy on the court. Brown averaged 12 points per game on 51% shooting from the field during the Nuggets’ postseason run. That included a pivotal game 4 in the NBA Finals where Brown scored 21 points in 30 minutes off the bench.
Buddy Hield had the most efficient year of his career. When he was paired with Haliburton, it seemed like a well-oiled machine. The flow was natural between the two and Hield shot 42% from deep. Hield will benefit from Brown’s IQ on the court to create more opportunities for him.
Securing the Future
After making a draft day trade to secure the rights to Jarace Walker, from the Wizards, the Pacers made sure to reward their All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton. As stated above, Haliburton signed a max contract during the opening stages of free agency. Walker is a defensive menace that has a huge upside. Haliburton had a career-high 10.4 assists per contest last season. Haliburton has a natural sense of getting the ball to his teammates where they excel the most.
The Pacers were a competitive team last season. Haliburton only played 56 games due to injuries. Indiana went 28-28 during those games, averaging 116.7 points a contest. The Pacers’ second-year sixth man Benedict Mathurin will continue to evolve his scoring ability. Former lottery pick Obi Toppin was acquired by the Pacers in a trade. His athleticism along with the ability of Mathurin should be able to solidify the bench.
Last Word on Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers were on the outside looking in of the play-in tournament last season. They have since constructed their roster to reflect the style of basketball they want to play. Expect the Pacers to operate via the fast break early and often. The new additions should make this team interesting to watch.
