The NBA had a crazy trade deadline in 2023, and we’ve already reviewed it in part (here). The Pacers were not heavily involved but did make some trades to shake things up. Additionally, three players were waived throughout the day in order to make space for some of the new additions: Terry Taylor, James Johnson, and Serge Ibaka (acquired on the deadline). This leaves the rotation similar but not exactly the same. We take a look at how the rotation has changed and then talk about what the changes mean.
1 Spot (Point Guard Rotation):
Tyrese Haliburton
TJ McConnell
George Hill
2 Spot (Shooting Guard Rotation):
Andrew Nembhard
Bennedict Mathurin
Chris Duarte
3 Spot (Small Forwards)
Buddy Hield
Jordan Nwora
4 Spot (Power Forwards)
Aaron Nesmith
Jalen Smith
Oshae Brissett
5 Spot (Center)
Myles Turner
Daniel Theis
Isaiah Jackson
The biggest area of weakness is still apparent and that is the forwards position. Given that Buddy Hield and Jordan Nwora are projecting out for the three spot (possibly Duarte as well), we are still a bit on the small size compared to many teams around the NBA.
We also are rather weak at the power forward spot, where we are sporting an undersized Nesmith and an oversized Jalen Smith without a true fit at the four spot. This leaves us vulnerable to elite power forwards that can shoot as well as play the post (which neither Nesmith or Smith can do both).
The Pacers will need to look to add another power forward in the draft or in free agency in order to solidify this rotation before anyone will feel it can be competitive at the highest level. Many fans were sad to see the team didn’t make a run at a great forward at the trade deadline, but perhaps the front office has their eyes on someone in the upcoming draft.