Indiana Pacers: 3 reasons to keep Aaron Holiday on the roster
By Luke Parrish
Aaron Holiday’s presence could impact how the Indiana Pacers attack the draft
With Indiana projected to have the 13th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, they could go a number of ways in the lottery. The most likely, or at least hopeful option, is for them to target a wing that can make an immediate impact. Given how valuable wings are and how the Pacers lack that position, they would be smart to target the top wings in this draft class.
If McConnell does indeed leave, the Pacers could easily target more guards in the draft to fill the rotation in the backcourt. Davion Mitchell is a name to watch as he would drastically improve Indiana’s defense on the perimeter while also bringing shooting on the other end.
Having someone like Aaron Holiday would not only help the Pacers with who they draft but also how they ease the rookie into the rotation. Indiana has not been known for playing young guys early in their careers so having Holiday for the upcoming season while developing their pick would certainly be in play.
Holiday may not be in their plans beyond next season but having a veteran with plenty of minutes under his belt should make things easier on the rotation while the rookie figures things out. It also gives Holiday motivation to improve knowing that there is a potential replacement breathing down his neck.
With just a month and a half before the draft, we could see how the Pacers view Holiday before they make any final decision.