The Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 2 to take a 2-0 series lead, and if that win proved anything, it is that they have no choice but to re-sign Myles Turner in free agency. Turner stepped up in a major way in Game 2, especially with Pascal Siakam struggling, and the Pacers absolutely need him to stay in contention, which he further proved in the victory.
In Game 2, Turner scored 23 points on 8-for-17 shooting, including 2-for-5 from beyond the arc. Additionally, the Texas native grabbed eight rebounds, one assist, and a steal. While this is impressive on its own, what really stood out for Turner was the game-high five blocks he recorded. Turner was everywhere in Game 2, and as if it was not obvious enough before, it has been even more clear that the Pacers need to bring him back this summer.
This summer, Turner is set to hit unrestricted free agency. There were previous reports that indicated Indiana wants to re-sign their long-time big man, but they want to avoid paying the luxury tax as well. Regardless of how it happens, the Pacers need to pay Turner whatever he wants because letting him walk would set the team back so much they would no longer be in immediate title contention.
The Pacers will not be able to replace Myles Turner
Arguably the most obvious reason the Pacers need to re-sign Turner this summer is that there is no clear replacement for him available. Turner is one of the best stretch big men in the NBA who provides elite rim protection. There are not many centers in the league currently who can do what Turner does, and he is a perfect fit in Indiana's system. Re-signing him is a no-brainer decision as it is, but it becomes even more obvious given the rest of the landscape.
The Pacers are just two wins away from their second conference finals appearance. Their series against the Cavaliers is not over yet, but they are in a great spot, and a lot of that has to do with Turner's presence.
Indiana is aiming to continue their playoff run and potentially return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000. However, what makes the Pacers a unique team is that they are still incredibly young with most of their key rotation players under contract for the long run. Even if they do not make it all the way this year, they will have more opportunities to do so, but only if Turner remains in Indiana beyond this summer.
Their season is not over yet, and the Pacers hope there is still a lot of basketball remaining. However, regardless of how their season ends, the Pacers will have some big decisions to make in the offseason. Hopefully for them, that includes signing Turner to a brand-new deal to keep him under contract for a little while longer.