The Indiana Pacers had their most successful season in a decade during the 2023-24 NBA season, making it to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2014. Despite being the No. 6 seed, the Pacers demonstrated remarkable performance, ultimately losing to the Boston Celtics, who went on to become the NBA champions. This achievement brought joy to Pacers fans and appeared to satisfy the team’s front office, as evidenced by a relatively quiet offseason where the team opted to maintain their core roster for the upcoming season.
However, the ever-changing dynamics of the Eastern Conference could prompt the Pacers to make strategic moves during the 2024-25 season to remain competitive. Here are two players from the Pacers who might be traded before the season ends:
1. Myles Turner
Myles Turner, who has spent his entire nine-year NBA career with the Pacers, is a cornerstone of the team. As a fan favorite and a crucial player in their playoff run last season, Turner’s importance to the team is undeniable. His performance has consistently been a key factor in the Pacers’ successes, making the idea of trading him seem unlikely at first glance.
However, Turner’s contract situation complicates matters. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer. Due to the specific terms of the two-year contract extension he signed last year, the Pacers are legally prohibited from negotiating another extension with him before he enters free agency. This creates a potential dilemma for the team. If the Pacers sense that Turner might not be inclined to return after his contract expires, or if the team struggles to contend during the season, trading him before the deadline could be a strategic move to avoid losing him without any compensation.
Turner has expressed his commitment to the Pacers, and with the team’s recent resurgence, a contract renewal next summer would be mutually beneficial. However, if the team’s performance falters or Turner’s intentions appear uncertain, the front office might consider trading him to secure assets for the future.
2. Jordan Nwora
Jordan Nwora, although relatively new to the Pacers, could also find himself on the trading block. Nwora was initially drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2020 and has since played for three different NBA teams. His journey through the league included a stint with the Bucks, where he experienced the pinnacle of success by winning an NBA Championship. Despite limited playing time during his rookie season, Nwora showcased his scoring ability, highlighted by a career-high 34 points in the last game of his rookie season.
In the 2021-22 season, Nwora continued with the Bucks before being traded to the Pacers in 2023. His time with the Pacers was short-lived, as he was traded to the Toronto Raptors in mid-January 2024. Throughout his NBA career, Nwora has proven to be a capable scorer with career averages of 7.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game. His shooting efficiency is notable, with a field goal percentage of 43.3%, a three-point percentage of 37.6%, and a free-throw percentage of 80.7%.
Nwora’s involvement in significant trades, including deals involving Kevin Durant and Pascal Siakam, indicates his value as a trade asset. His ability to contribute offensively makes him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their scoring depth. Given the Pacers’ need to remain competitive, Nwora could be included in a trade package to acquire more experienced or specialized players who can help the team achieve their playoff aspirations.
Potential Scenarios
The Pacers’ decision to trade either Turner or Nwora would likely be influenced by the team’s performance as the season progresses. If the Pacers start strong and establish themselves as contenders, the likelihood of trading key players diminishes. However, if the team struggles or if contract negotiations with Turner hit a snag, the front office might be more inclined to make strategic trades.
For Turner, potential suitors would include teams in need of a defensive anchor and a versatile big man. His ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor with his shooting makes him a valuable asset for playoff-bound teams. On the other hand, Nwora’s scoring prowess and shooting efficiency could attract teams looking for a reliable bench scorer or a young player with upside.
Ultimately, the Pacers’ approach to the trade market will be a balancing act between immediate success and long-term stability. While trading Turner or Nwora might seem counterintuitive given their contributions, the front office must consider the broader context of contract situations and team dynamics. By making calculated moves, the Pacers can ensure they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving Eastern Conference.
