The Indiana Pacers are not where many fans expected them to be at this point in the season. Through 14 games, the Pacers are 6-8. Additionally, they have struggled to go above .500 and have played inconsistent basketball all season. They are dealing with many tough injuries, and the season is still young, but there is no denying that there is genuine concern regarding the Pacers this season.
While they are not in any major trade rumors, the Pacers always seem open to making some big moves to change the roster up. With the trade deadline still a few months away, the Pacers are unlikely to make any blockbuster moves soon. However, if they continue to underwhelm, a roster shakeup may be in line.
Here are three players the Pacers could realistically trade before the end of the season.
1. Andrew Nembhard
Despite signing a contract extension this past offseason, Andrew Nembhard is a realistic trade candidate for the Pacers. In a September, NBA podcaster Nate Duncan said he would "be shocked" if Nembhard finished his contract in Indiana. He mentioned that Nembhard's contract raises his trade value.
To begin the season, Nembhard, who has missed the last six games for the Pacers, is off to a slow start. In seven games, he is averaging 7.3 points on 38.5% shooting, 2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. Additionally, with the emergence of third-year wing Bennedict Mathurin, who looks like a lock to remain in the team's lineup, Nembhard has become a lot more replaceable.
2. Jarace Walker
The idea of the Pacers potentially trading Jarace Walker has floated around since before the offseason. Despite getting drafted eighth overall in 2023, Walker struggled to make an immediate impact in Indiana, appearing in just 33 games. Though he had higher hopes ahead of his sophomore season, the Houston alum, while improved, still has a lot of weaknesses on the court.
Walker has appeared in 14 games for the Pacers this season, averaging 5.8 points on 44.8% shooting. The forward looks solid at times, but he has struggled to remain a consistent contributor on the court. Additionally, it seems that the only way for Walker to get legitimate playing time on the team is if there are numerous injuries to the team.
There is a lot to like about Walker's game, but there is a reason to be concerned about his standing on the Pacers roster. It could be in Indiana's best interest to move on from the Pennsylvania native before his trade value diminishes too much.
3. Myles Turner
The Pacers are not likely to trade Myles Turner this season. However, there is no doubt that the team will at least entertain the idea.
Turner is in the last season of his contract and cannot be extended due to the nature of two-year deals in the NBA. The long-time Pacers big man remains a top trade asset for the Pacers and likely always will. He is a fantastic stretch big who can help any title contender. Although his defense is not what it used to be, Turner is still a positive on that side of the ball as well.
Ultimately, Turner is not likely to go anywhere. The Pacers front office has already made it clear that they want him around for the long run, and rightfully so. However, Turner can bring a great return for Indiana, and with there being even a small chance he leaves in free agency, trading him is an option the Pacers might have to explore.