What does T.J. Warren bring to the table for the Indiana Pacers?

In the wake of Bojan Bogdanovic’s departure, how can T.J. Warren contribute in his new uniform for the Indiana Pacers?

Minutes prior to the 2019 NBA Draft, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Indiana Pacers would acquire Phoenix Suns forward T.J. Warren, along with the 32nd overall pick, in exchange for cash considerations. The move is still somewhat puzzling, as the Pacers gave up no trade assets and simply absorbed his contract – with 3 years left at just over $35 million collectively – leaving them with a young player and assets that helped attain Malcolm Brogdon.

Despite an ankle injury limiting him to just 43 games last season, Warren posted respectable averages and had the most efficient shooting season of his career. The 25-year-old averaged 18.0 points and 4.0 rebounds on 58% true-shooting from the floor. Starting for a team that has been in a perennial rebuild, it’s a little perplexing Phoenix was so willing to move on from the fourteenth pick in the 2014 draft.

Considering the team’s front office was willing to take on his three-year guaranteed contract, clearly they see potential in Warren and think he can positively impact Indy’s young core. With Victor Oladipo likely sitting out until January, and Bojan Bogdanovic signing with the Utah Jazz, the Pacers’ new addition will have an increased opportunity as he takes over the starting small forward role.

I want to look at a few of the ways Warren can contribute for his new team, starting with what he can do on the perimeter: