Indiana Pacers: Pass or pursue on the team’s upcoming free agents

Could the Indiana Pacers secure Jalen Smith back for another season?

Happening almost concurrently with the semi-blockbuster Haliburton-Sabonis trade, the deal that landed Jalen Smith in Indiana was less boisterous, but on a relative degree, it should probably be met with more praise for the Pacers front office.

After serving as a full-time benchwarmer for the Phoenix Suns in one-and-a-half season, the sophomore big man has opened eyes in the Circle City. In 24 appearances with the team, Smith logged 13.4 points and 7.6 rebounds per game in just 24.7 minutes per contest, showcasing his versatility as a rim runner and a floor spacer.

However, while the Pacers could normally keep him, they are hobbled by design in mounting an offer for him as they can only bid $4.5 million for his services according to the rules following the Suns’ jettisoning of his third-year option before the trade.

Obviously, the Indiana Pacers should and would want him back, but given their financial outlook with Jalen Smith, they can only hope that the big man treasures his opportunity with the team and opts for a one-year discount as a domino for a bigger deal or that everyone in the league sees his improved output only as an aberration and declines to take a gamble.

Verdict: Pursue (and Pray)