What do the Indiana Pacers do without T.J. Warren for the rest of the season?

T.J. Warren has been ruled out for the remainder of the season for the Indiana Pacers, which was somewhat expected after his absence extended well into the schedule. Warren’s absence has certainly been felt by a struggling Pacers team and it begs the question of what comes next for the Pacers?

The Pacers were not active at the trade deadline and missed out on possible replacements for the hobbled Warren, including Evan Fournier, Norman Powell, and Otto Porter Jr. Can Indiana still replace the guy that was expected to be its leading scorer this season?

T.J. Warren will not return to the Indiana Pacers this season

Otto Porter Jr. was traded to the Magic on Thursday morning and is a candidate for a buy-out before actually suiting up in Orlando. If he is bought out, the Pacers should be all over him for his three-and-D ability and as an extra wing defender to finish off the season.

They could also look to free agent Rondae Hollis-Jefferson to be a lockdown perimeter defender if that’s what they are seeking. By waiving guard Jalen Lecque this afternoon, Indiana cleared up a roster spot so a move does seem imminent.

Whichever direction the Pacers go, it is sure to wrinkle some feathers. They are in the bottom half of the Eastern Conference and failed to make any impactful moves at the trade deadline while the rest of the conference made moves to get better. If they feel as if the best bet is to work towards next season and do not want to move any of their assets, then so be it.

Warren was a breakout player last season and carried his strong play into the bubble where he erupted and set high expectations for this season. After injuries completely derailed his progress, the Pacers have been left wondering what could have been this year with a healthy Warren, an All-Star in Domantas Sabonis, and a fresh Caris LeVert.

Hopefully, the Pacers can find someone on the market that can make up for the now-official loss of T.J. Warren while also allowing the young players to get some run. Hey, maybe Edmond Sumner can continue to grow into a larger role.