The Indiana Pacers are ready to win now, as evidence by their huge trade for Pascal Siakam a few weeks ago. Now, what’s next for Indiana with the trade deadline on the horizon?
The most plausible scenario is Indiana staying pat, allowing chemistry to build for Siakam and others as he integrates in. However, the Pacers would be wise to explore any potential upgrades for a postseason run utilizing Buddy Hield’s large $19.3 million expiring contract.
Hield is known as a streaky shooter, but when he’s on from three-point range the evidence shows a valuable offensive player for spacing purposes. As of late, though, Indiana seems to be prioritizing the development of first-round pick Ben Sheppard heading towards the deadline.
Ironically enough, when Sheppard was drafted in June, he was viewed as a likely in-house replacement for Hield after this season concluded. Since Siakam arrived, Sheppard’s more versatile skillset is becoming hard to ignore compared to Hield’s one-way game.
Hield is the Pacers’ most vulnerable target on defense, which is why his minutes have begun to dwindle.
Another interesting note for Hield and the Pacers approaching the trade deadline revolve around talks of a potential extension being nonexistent. Indiana offered Hield a deal in the offseason, which Hield’s camp quickly rejected. Even still, both sides appear far apart in talks.
With that being said, if both sides know he’s leaving Indiana this summer, it would be wise to explore any potential options to upgrade their rotation now and potentially in the future. Hield’s big expiring salary would allow them to still be in talks for defense-first wings, which is the missing link remaining for Indiana’s already loaded rotation.
Would the Pacers and Brooklyn Nets be willing to discuss a deal involving Hield for Dorian Finney-Smith and/or Royce O’Neale? One of those veteran wings from Brooklyn would certainly help Indiana against the Eastern Conference’s elite tier of teams like the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks.
The Pacers are likely done on the trade market, but it would be smart to see what value Hield could garner.
