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8p9s Roundtable: David West Is Gone

By 8 Points, 9 Seconds Staff, 8 Points, 9 Seconds Staff

Jan 25, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Indiana Pacers forward David West (21) looks on from the bench at a timeout during the second half against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. Indiana Pacers defeated the Orlando Magic 106-99. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 25, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Indiana Pacers forward David West (21) looks on from the bench at a timeout during the second half against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. Indiana Pacers defeated the Orlando Magic 106-99. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Would the Pacers be better off having David West next season or cap room this summer?

Donahue: It’s impossible to tell. West’s departure represents a foundational change in the Pacers. The identity Indiana forged, and the success they had from 2012 through 2014 simply do not happen with out David West’s presence. They are now fundamentally a different team. However, that does bring opportunities and perhaps accelerates the adaptation to the faster style of play Larry Bird wants. The important thing to remember is that this $10 million isn’t incremental, as I explain here. It provides more flexibility, but it only generates about $5 million more in spending power. Further, it has to cover a lot of needs — be it pursuing a free agent or re-signing Rodney Stuckey or adding salary through trades. Having West offers stability at the possible risk of stagnation. Having the cap room offers flexibility, but leaves more holes to fill.

From a cold, unsentimental perspective: the cap room. If the Pacers brass is serious about changing the nature of the team this offseason, shedding a highly paid veteran like West isn’t a bad way to start.

Stewart: I want Indiana to embrace the decision of West by thanking him for giving us this room. Rodney Stuckey has to be a priority and while he shouldn’t be demanding anywhere even close to $10m, if Bird also wants to keep Scola that money goes straight to them. If not, they could pursue a FA like Monta Ellis like the rumors have suggested.

Barth: I don’t think you can replace his mentor-like locker room presence, raw toughness and overall will to win, but you can certainly replace his stats with a much younger player at half the cost. The cap room probably brings back Stuckey and Scola which could prove to be critical moves for the bench next season as well.

Lukach: From a cold, unsentimental perspective: the cap room. If the Pacers brass is serious about changing the nature of the team this offseason, shedding a highly paid veteran like West isn’t a bad way to start, especially at the linchpin power-forward position.

Next: How to Replace West?

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