The Indiana Pacers got their new starting center when they traded for Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers in February, but that might not mean the team is done making moves to address their center depth just yet.
With the futures of Jay Huff and Micah Potter still up in the air, Indiana could make a surprising move and revive its trade interest in one particular player who could act as a fantastic backup to Zubac: New Orleans Pelicans big man Yves Missi.
The Pacers were linked to Missi numerous times before they landed Zubac, but it could make sense for them to re-explore these talks.
In a recent episode of the "Setting the Pace" podcast, Alex Golden spoke about the idea of the Pacers acquiring the Baylor alum.
"I can't get rid of the fact that Yves Missi with the New Orleans Pelicans could make a lot of sense here as a backup young big to play behind Zubac. And I think that he would really just develop into a very nice piece," Golden said.
Yves Missi would be a solid backup center for the Pacers
Missi's stats didn't jump out this past season. He averaged just 5.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.5 blocks while shooting 54.4% from the field in 19.7 minutes. His campaign may not have been as impressive as his rookie year, when he was named to the 2024-25 All-Rookie Second Team, but it's clear that he has talent and could be a good fit in Indiana.
The 21-year-old mostly acted as a backup to players like Derik Queen, Kevon Looney, and even Herb Jones last season, but he looked solid when he had the opportunity. Missi is a fantastic rebounder, rim protector, and lob threat. He is also incredibly athletic, plays with a high motor, and has a bit of defensive versatility as someone who can switch onto smaller players and hold his own.
With Queen now in the picture, it's fair to wonder what Missi's future in New Orleans could look like. He wouldn't be a perfect fit in Indiana because of his lackluster offensive game, but there's a lot to like about what Missi brings to the table. And given that he is still on a rookie contract, it likely wouldn't cost the Pacers much to acquire him (as long as the Pelicans are still willing to trade him).
The Pacers will need a new backup center if they choose to move on from Huff and/or Potter. And acquiring Missi could be the move they need to make, especially given that he still has a lot of untapped potential and could be a real contributor for years to come.
Add us as a preferred source on Google