The Indiana Pacers have been actively reshaping their roster and preparing for a future filled with greater competition throughout this busy offseason. The Pacers made waves by signing Pascal Siakam to a four-year max contract and selecting Johnny Furphy in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft, following a season that saw them make it to the Eastern Conference Finals. Even with these big changes, there are still some holes to be filled and avenues to pursue. Let’s examine three sly moves the Pacers could still make in the last few days of the offseason to strengthen their squad and pursue a deeper postseason run as the new NBA season draws near.
Jarred Vanderbilt Would Improve The Defense So Much
Pacers receive: Jarred Vanderbilt
Lakers receive: Jarace Walker, Kendall Brown, 2025 second-round pick
Acquiring Jarred Vanderbilt could indeed be a strategic move for the Indiana Pacers, especially given their offensive-oriented lineup led by players like Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. Vanderbilt’s defensive prowess and versatility would add significant value to the team’s dynamics.
Standing at 6’9″ with a wingspan of 7’1″, Vanderbilt excels in guarding multiple positions, including switching onto guards and wings effectively. His ability to protect the rim and crash the boards would complement the Pacers’ high-tempo offense by creating transition opportunities and securing possessions.
During his time with the Lakers, Vanderbilt showcased strong defensive metrics, evident in his defensive rating of 105.3, highlighting his impact in limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities. His versatility would enable the Pacers to execute seamless defensive switches, alleviating defensive responsibilities from primary scorers like Haliburton.
Pairing Vanderbilt with Myles Turner, known for his shot-blocking abilities, would bolster the Pacers’ interior defense while allowing Turner more freedom on offense. Vanderbilt’s capability to defend both inside and outside would mitigate defensive weaknesses within the roster, crucially enhancing their competitiveness in playoff scenarios.
In conclusion, Vanderbilt’s addition could elevate the Pacers’ defensive capabilities significantly, providing a balanced approach essential for Eastern Conference contention. His defensive tenacity would complement the team’s offensive efficiency, positioning them as a formidable opponent capable of competing at a high level.
De’Andre Hunter Can Be A Great Wing Option
Pacers receive: De’Andre Hunter
Hawks receive: Aaron Nesmith, Jarace Walker
Acquiring De’Andre Hunter would indeed be a strategic move for the Indiana Pacers, addressing key needs and bolstering their roster in significant ways.
Standing at 6’8″ with a strong defensive acumen, Hunter is known for his versatility and ability to guard multiple positions effectively. His defensive metrics reflect his capability to handle tough assignments, often matched up against the opposition’s top wing players. This defensive prowess would complement the Pacers’ current lineup, which leans heavily on offensive talents like Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam.
Offensively, Hunter has shown steady improvement, averaging 15.6 points per game last season with efficient shooting both inside and outside the arc. His three-point shooting and ability to attack closeouts would provide valuable spacing for Haliburton and Siakam, opening up opportunities for them to create and score.
Beyond his on-court abilities, Hunter brings playoff experience from his time with the Atlanta Hawks, having played a significant role in deep postseason runs. This experience in high-pressure situations would be invaluable for the Pacers, especially as they aim to compete at a higher level in the Eastern Conference.
Trading Aaron Nesmith and Jarace Walker for Hunter would be a calculated move. While Nesmith offers shooting and energy, and Walker presents potential upside, Hunter’s established two-way game and playoff pedigree provide an immediate impact upgrade. His addition would strengthen the Pacers’ wing defense and add a consistent scoring threat, aligning perfectly with their goal of building a well-rounded team capable of competing deep into the playoffs.
In summary, acquiring De’Andre Hunter would elevate the Pacers’ game by enhancing both their defensive capabilities and offensive versatility. His addition would make Indiana a more formidable opponent in the Eastern Conference, positioning them well for a successful season and playoff campaign.
A Lockdown Defender In Tari Eason
Pacers receive: Tari Eason
Rockets receive: Obi Toppin, 2029 first-round pick
Acquiring Tari Eason would indeed be a significant move for the Indiana Pacers, especially in terms of enhancing their defensive capabilities and overall team toughness.
Standing at 6’8″ with a wingspan of 7’2″, Eason is known for his exceptional defensive skills and versatility. His ability to guard multiple positions effectively, from perimeter threats to post players, would immediately bolster the Pacers’ defensive schemes. Last season with the Houston Rockets, Eason demonstrated his ability to take on tough defensive assignments and excel in one-on-one situations, showcasing his agility, length, and ability to disrupt plays.
Offensively, Eason has shown promise, averaging 9.8 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. While his offensive game is still developing, his hustle and energy contribute to second-chance opportunities and momentum shifts, factors that are crucial in competitive games.
Trading Obi Toppin and a 2029 first-round pick for Eason would be a calculated move for the Pacers. Toppin, known for his athleticism and dunking prowess, would provide the Rockets with an exciting player to develop alongside their young core. In return, the Pacers would receive a player in Eason who can immediately impact their defensive strategy and overall team dynamics.
Integrating Eason into the Pacers’ system would likely lead to noticeable improvements in their defensive metrics. His presence would allow Myles Turner to focus more on rim protection, knowing that Eason can handle perimeter defense and provide support in the paint. This defensive upgrade would be particularly valuable in playoff scenarios, where defensive stops often determine game outcomes.
In summary, acquiring Tari Eason would elevate the Pacers’ defensive prowess and overall competitiveness in the Eastern Conference. His versatility, defensive skills, and energy would complement the offensive talents of players like Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, making Indiana a more well-rounded and formidable team in the postseason race.