Trading Jarace Walker may be an inevitability for the Indiana Pacers this season because of his disappointing play. But at the very least, he showed something in his latest performance that Indiana should keep in mind moving forward.
During Indiana's loss to the Houston Rockets on Monday, the Houston alum recorded 12 points on 5-for-7 shooting, three assists, two rebounds, and a steal in 24 minutes off the bench.
It's not much, but this was easily Walker's best game in a long time. At the very least, he gave the Pacers a bit more proof that maybe he can be a real asset for the long haul, and that they shouldn't give up on him just yet.
Pacers may be better off keeping Jarace Walker around
There is no denying how disappointing Walker has been this season. He has shown flashes at times, but more often than not, he looks too hesitant to be a positive on the court. Plus, his inconsistencies haven't been ironed out, even in a bigger and more consistent role.
Because of this, it could make sense for Indiana to trade him while he's still young and possesses at least some value, particularly for an upgrade at center. This is risky as, in theory, Walker's value is likely never going to be lower than it is right now, but this might still be the right call for their long-term success.
On paper, Walker can be a fantastic player for the Pacers. He can guard and play every position, he can be a physical brute, and he has shown flashes as a shooter and defender. Additionally, he is still just 22 years old and should only get better from here.
The Pennsylvania native is a jack-of-all-trades type of player. He can do a bit of everything. However, he can't do everything at a high level at the same time, and that's where the Pacers gripes with him come into play.
But that's exactly it. Maybe he does still just need more time to work everything out. This is his third season, but it's really the first one where he's taking on a consistent big-time role. And as he showed against Houston, when he's on, he can be very effective.
Earlier this season, it looked like a foregone conclusion that the Pacers would trade Walker this season. And, ultimately, that might just be what happens anyway. But either way, it's way too soon to give up on the former top-10 draft pick. And maybe, just maybe, he needs just a little bit more time to fully showcase exactly why he can help Indiana re-enter the title picture sooner rather than later and to prove that he's a legitimate asset, not a trade chip.