Ex-Pacers star gets trade dumped to potential short-term new home
By Jack Simone
Over the years, the Indiana Pacers have been home to plenty of stars, including the likes of Reggie Miller, Paul George, and now, Tyrese Haliburton. But one of the most intriguing eras in Pacers history was when Victor Oladipo was leading the way.
After a solid first four years into the league, Oladipo joined the Pacers in the George trade, and once he got to Indiana, he burst onto the scene, displaying his All-Star-caliber talent.
In the first two of his three-and-a-half seasons with the Pacers, Oladipo made two All-Star teams, an All-NBA Team, and an All-Defensive team, but since leaving, injuries have plagued his career. Now, he’ll be heading back to the Houston Rockets.
Former Indiana Pacers guard Victor Oladipo traded to Houston Rockets
The Oklahoma City Thunder traded Oladipo and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl to Houston in exchange for Kevin Porter Jr. and two second-round picks.
The move was made so the Rockets could get off of Porter Jr.’s contract after the recent allegations against him, while the Thunder picked up some second-rounders and helped their roster situation.
For Oladipo, who is still recovering from patellar tendon surgery in April and won’t return until at least a few weeks into the season, this means a change of scenery.
He spent this past year with the Miami Heat but is now back with the Rockets, with whom he spent half a season during 2020-21 after getting traded by Indiana.
The former All-Star hasn’t been able to shake the injury bug, but he’s still proven to be a productive player when on the court, meaning teams could look to scoop him up should the Rockets waive or trade him.
Some contending teams would love to snag him should he hit the open market, as he would likely be looking for a minimum contract. And if the money works, a trade shouldn’t be ruled out, either.
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At 31 years old, the former Pacer likely only has a few NBA years left in him, so getting his next team right will be crucial. That team may be the Rockets, but with the trade and the current state of the team, anything could happen with Oladipo heading into next year.