The Indiana Pacers have slowly, but surely, started their rebuild the right way. Adding a seriously talented prospect in Benedict Mathurin who has been solid throughout his rookie year, re-signing Myles Turner to a long-term deal, finding their NBA All-Star point guard in Tyrese Haliburton, and stacking up future draft capital.
During the NBA trade deadline, they looked to add another solidified piece in OG Anunoby from Toronto. But the Raptors didn’t budge. However, those talks may not be done just yet, as one NBA executive told NBA Analysis Network.
“The Pacers threw a huge offer at the Raptors for Anunoby ahead of the trade deadline. Those talks are expected to be revisited in the offseason. Tyrese Haliburton has really pushed Indiana to pursue the former IU standout.”
Anunoby would not just add an elite defender to the picture for Indiana, but he has increased his offensive game in wide margin and has become a serious threat with the basketball in his hands. A young forward with the ability to be one of the better two-way players in the league. Which is just what the Pacers could use.
Anunoby has averaged 16.9 points and 5.0 rebounds per game throughout the season this year. He has shot 47.8% from the field and can stretch the floor from all facets on both sides of the ball. Anunoby remains just 25 years of age and for what the Pacers are building, he is the ideal player for the rebuild.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: OG Anunoby, Toronto Raptors & Indiana Pacers Updates
A player that has already proven his worth, but hasn’t necessarily hit his prime years yet. Anunoby has become a better player each year since entering the NBA. Pairing him with Haliburton, Mathurin, Turner, and potentially other pieces, considering they more than likely will have a lottery pick. Indiana could find itself in a very good spot in the east next season.
They still have more work to do until they are serious threats in the Eastern Conference. However, this would be a very nice step in the right direction for Rick Carlisle’s group.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: OG Anunoby, Toronto Raptors & Indiana Pacers Updates
The Pacers have more than enough cap space to fit in Anunoby and others. Especially, if they decide to part ways with Buddy Hield this off-season via trade or release.
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