Even if the Indiana Pacers are not having the best season standings-wise, there have been some nice stories to look at for the future. One of those is Jay Huff, who came in via a trade in the offseason from the Memphis Grizzlies. After losing long-time centerpiece Myles Turner, many questioned how this fit would work. Yet he has proved to be a solid acquisition for what the Pacers need now and in future years.
On Apr. 1, we saw Huff show off his skill for the Pacers in their 145-126 win over the Chicago Bulls. In just 17 minutes last night, the big man notched 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists while shooting efficiently too. He shot 75% from the field and and 71% from three (6/8, 5/7). His ability to provide the necessary spacing and three-point scoring is key for the Pacers.
Huff showed this off in Memphis last year and continues to prove it in Indiana this year. The Pacers need this value from him as they are tied for 18th in the league in three-point percentage at 35.6%. They are in the middle of the league in attempts per game as well, with 37.4. This shows that the Virginia alum knocking down these shots at a consistent rate can help them score from all levels, boosting overall offensive output.
The Pacers also love to put their opponents in uncomfortable situations by playing at a faster speed. This usually forces them to attack the basket and try to score at the rim, mainly, but having shooters on the perimeter, like Aaron Nesmith and now Huff, can add more value to the offense. With his role increasing by almost doubling his minutes as well, compared to last year, you can understand why the stats drop down a bit.
That being said, he can still be a necessity for the team.
Jay Huff should be a great backup center for the Pacers
With the Pacers also acquiring Ivica Zubac at the trade deadline, Huff will no longer be the starting center, going back to a role that suits him a bit better for his development. Having a big man who can space the floor and knock down a couple of threes, while also being a solid rim protector, is what this team needs. Especially after losing Myles Turner, Huff can provide a similar role the team is familiar with, but at a lower cost.
This is also great, as he shines in the ways Zubac is not the best, and vice versa. This combination allows the Pacers to get the value they truly need in any matchup by using either big man to the team's advantage. Truly, this will be best for next season when the Pacers shoot for the stars once again.
Just imagine Tyrese Haliburton getting a huge steal and running on the fast break and finding Huff for a nice three-point shot. The Gainbridge Fieldhouse roars with cheers, and everyone is just thrilled to see the team winning again. That is something to envision for next year and patiently wait on, as Huff truly does look like he can be valuable for now but also in the future.