Last year, the Indiana Pacers were the winners of the Pascal Siakam sweepstakes and acquired him via a trade from the Toronto Raptors. Since then, Siakam has proven that he is a key contributor in Indiana. He played a crucial role in the Pacers' conference finals run last year, and he is having another stellar season this year, having been named to his third All-Star team.
According to StatMuse, the Pacers are 66-49 in the regular season when Siakam suits up. Furthermore, he is the perfect fit alongside Myles Turner in the frontcourt, and he has elevated the team on both sides of the ball. The Pacers signed the one-time champion to a four-year, $189 million contract last offseason, so it sure sounds like he will remain with the team for a while.
On Wednesday, Siakam and Andrew Nembhard were on the Young Man and the Three podcast (YouTube link). During the interview, Nembhard explained what makes Siakam such a good addition for the Pacers over a year later, and it is only further proof that the Pacers made the right call.
Andrew Nembhard praises Pascal Siakam's consistency
While Siakam provides a lot of value on the court for the Pacers, he is equally as valuable off the court. Only three Pacers have more league experience than Siakam does, so his veteran leadership is crucial. However, regardless of whether it is on or off the court, there is one word to perfectly describe Siakam--consistent. In their recent interview, Nembhard spoke about Siakam's consistency and called him "a pro."
"The best way to describe [Pascal] is consistency. Through all the ups and downs, different lineups, ball coming from different places, he just continues to work. He's always in the gym early getting his shots up...he's a pro," Nembhard said.
Nembhard's comments only solidify the fact that the Pacers were right to pursue Siakam as heavily as they did and ultimately acquire him. The Cameroon native is a rock in the Pacers' system, which is incredibly valuable. The Pacers are young and should only improve from here on out. As long as Siakam is around and continuing to do what he does best, they will be in a good position to compete for a long time.
Though Siakam still has a few years remaining on his contract, he and the Pacers likely have their eyes set on accomplishing a certain goal this year. After their conference finals run last year, the Pacers are in a good spot to make another deep playoff run this season and compete for a championship.
While the Pacers will have some major obstacles to overcome in the East, they are still not a team to take lightly. Regardless, as long as Siakam is around, the Pacers will always be a threat to surprise the basketball world once again and go on a deep run.