7 offseason tasks Pacers should already be working on
By Joe Lyon
7. Decide what to do with Buddy Hield long-term
Much was talked about in terms of what to do with Buddy Hield this season. When he first arrived in Indy, many figured he was merely a trade throw-in and a player that wouldn’t be with the Pacers long-term.
Throughout this season, Hield showed up in countless trade rumors, most specifically constantly being mentioned in trades to the Lakers. However, here we are at the end of the 22-23 season and Hield is still a central piece to the Pacers team.
He is a great friend of Haliburton, and that alone may be enough to keep him on this team for awhile. But he generally has played well, having a few scorching streaks from behind the arc.
Yet, Hield has three years left on his deal and is the second-highest paid player on the team. While he seems to be a good piece now to have, questions persist whether he will be a good piece to have when his contract is closer to the end.
The Pacers need to decide whether or not Buddy fits into the long-term plans and act accordingly.