Indiana Pacers off-season wrap-up: The 7 departing players

Thaddeus Young

Let’s start with the one that hurts the most. Thaddeus Young never stuffed the stat sheet, was never the star on the court, and was never huge in the press. But man, this man was probably the most important player on the roster outside of Victor Oladipo. Thad brought hard work, leadership, and class to the organization in a time where the team really needed it.

Being traded to the Pacers in Paul George‘s last season with the team, Thad was the savvy veteran who always gave 110% effort and kept everyone’s heads in the game. He was instrumental in helping to create the attitude and principles of these Pacers teams. He was a consummate professional and the perfect player to help Oladipo become a leader.

There were really no indications that the Pacers would re-sign him (role, cost, and playing time were all factors), so now Thad is a member of a young Bulls team, one that he can mentor just like the Pacers, for 3 years, $43 million.