Why the Indiana Pacers should extend Domantas Sabonis this summer

During his time with the Indiana Pacers, Domantas Sabonis has displayed why he has become a viable option at the power forward position. His multifaceted game has molded him into a potential candidate for a contract extension with the team. This is the case for the Pacers organization to offer the emerging  power forward a contract extension.

Not every player in the NBA has the same level of expectations. When you’re the son of a FIBA Hall of Famer, things are most certainly different. In his second season with the Indiana Pacers, Domantas Sabonis, son of the legendary Arvydas Sabonis, came into his own as one of the premier bench options in the NBA.

In a season that concluded with being nominated for the Sixth Man of the Year award alongside Montrezl Harrell and Lou Williams, it’s safe to say that 2018-19 was a successful campaign for the emerging power forward.

This is why the Pacers should extend the contract of Sabonis as his game continues to mature and flourish under the direction of Coach McMillan and the organization.

For Sabonis, the Pacers have provided the former first-round pick with comfort and stability. After being traded twice early in his career as a member of the Orlando Magic and Oklahoma City Thunder, Sabonis has built a foundation as a member of the Pacers while developing into a well-rounded and widely respected player.

The 2018-19 season was the culmination of Sabonis’ growth which provides a motive for the Pacers to lengthen their relationship contractually with the power forward.

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Statistically, this season was Sabonis’ best in his career. From his time at Gonzaga University, Sabonis was regarded as an inside-post presence with rare vision as a passer. However, the Pacers coaching staff have developed Sabonis into a player with a diverse skillset that can impact the game on a nightly basis.

This is evident in his increased production across the board.

Even though Sabonis averaged nearly the same number of minutes played as last season, the uptick in his numbers is a testament to his growth as a player.

Sabonis averaged 14.1 points per game this season as the Pacers’ number one option off the bench. Last season, he averaged 11.6 PPG. But what has been a major contributor to Sabonis’ recent surge of success is his efficiency. From the field, Sabonis shot 59 percent this season, which is an uptick from 51 percent, clear evidence of Sabonis’ improvement.

From three-point range, an increase in his efficiency is also apparent. Last season, Sabonis shot the ball at a 35-percent rate from behind the arc. But now, he’s increased his efficiency tenfold by shooting at 52-percent from long range this season, a staggering increase.

This season has been a clear step in the right direction for the rising star; Sabonis has built a case for a contract extension.

This newfound comfort and production for Sabonis have also translated to his production on the defensive side of the floor and the so-called “hustle plays.” By averaging 9.3 rebounds this season, Sabonis has made himself a constant threat for a double-double every night with his recent improvement on offense.

Just like his father, Sabonis has also shown poise as a passer this season. With a high basketball IQ, Sabonis can further solidify that he isn’t a one-trick pony and can bring a multitude of skills to the table.

Due to his maturity both on and off the floor, it is often difficult to remember just how young Sabonis is. The 23-year-old power forward has yet to reach his prime and is still in the middle of his maturation process. The Pacers should take advantage of this by ensuring Sabonis remains with the organization during the prime of his career.

We have yet to see Sabonis reach his ceiling. With that being said, the 2018-19 season was proof to the Pacers organization and fans that he is worthy of a contract extension, despite being on his second team in three seasons.

Sabonis also displayed resolve after battling a bout of illness and several injuries throughout last season.  Sabonis missed a total of 18 games, which can be tough for a player who already is considered rotational.

However, through the adversity, Sabonis remained a professional and a key contributor, which was needed in the absence of Victor Oladipo. With the youth in today’s NBA, it has become important for ball clubs to have players who exert professionalism in every facet. Sabonis fits that bill.

It’s safe to say that Sabonis was a reason why the Pacers remained afloat in the Eastern Conference during the latter half of the season, and other teams certainly noticed. By letting Sabonis reach the market, other teams may jump on the opportunity.

With the Pacers aiming to take things to the next level, Sabonis could be a part of that mix. However, there is potential for the overall team success to come at the expense of the power forward.

Sabonis could be a trade piece included in a package for a highly-touted player, but hopefully, he will remain alongside best friend Oladipo as they look to take advantage of the recent parity within the Eastern Conference.

It is in the best interest of Domantas Sabonis and the Indiana Pacers to build on what has already been established. Extending the contract of the power forward places both the organization and Sabonis in a position to succeed and exhaust their potential.