Jalen Smith Has Seized His Opportunity
In terms of other free agents and possible targets for the Pacers, Jalen Smith, who was traded to Indiana at the trade deadline is going to be a free agent, as will veteran Lance Stephenson.
Smith has played well since joining the Pacers, averaging 13.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and shooting 53.3% from the floor, 38.4% from three-point range in 19 total games with Indiana.
Jalen Smith likely will not see a massive contract, but his play has definitely earned him a chance to see the value of a three-year deal worth upwards of $25 million to $30 million.
Due to his team options on the back-end of his current contract being declined by Phoenix, the most Indiana could offer Smith to return on a multi-year deal is what his salary would have been worth for next season, which is $4.7 million.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Has Myles Turner Already Played Final Game With Indiana Pacers?
While it may seem a little unfair, Indiana is the only team in the league that cannot exceed $4.7 million when negotiating a new contract with Jalen Smith in free agency as a result of his options being declined.
With the 2022 free agency class expected to be underwhelming and the lack of interior presences available, Jalen Smith could very well earn himself some good money with another team.
