For a long time, it looked like a lock that the Indiana Pacers would re-sign Myles Turner as an unrestricted free agent this summer. However, following his lackluster performance in the NBA Finals, the Pacers might have to re-consider signing the Texas native to a long-term, lucrative deal if this is a sign of things to come.
Through the first five games of the NBA Finals, Turner is averaging 13 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.6 blocks, and 2.4 turnovers. Additionally, he has shot 41.7% from the field and 22.7% from beyond the arc in the series.
Earlier in the series, head coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged that Turner was dealing with an illness, which is likely a big reason for how he has played. Even so, this is a concern for the Pacers. Unfortunately for the team, Turner has played fewer than 30 minutes in five of the their last seven games, dating back to the conference finals against the New York Knicks, and he played poorly in the two exceptions.
It is still a bit early to know what Turner's future with the Pacers will look like for sure, but as it stands, re-signing him no longer seems like a no-brainer move for the team.
The Pacers have some major decisions to make in the offseason
Outside of a few stretches, Turner has looked brutal in the NBA Finals. His shot has not fallen all series long, and he is not making much of an impact on the defensive side of the ball. Furthermore, he has never been much of a rebounder, and that has cost the Pacers numerous times in this series. It could just be a bad run for him right now, but Turner's play might be costing him millions and a long-term role in Indiana.
Even just one month ago, it seemed like an easy decision for the Pacers to bring Turner back in free agency. However, it has been clear time and time again that the team wants to avoid paying the luxury tax if possible. Re-signing their long-time big man would almost inevitably do that, especially if they do not make any other moves to give themselves some financial flexibility.
Turner will have at least one more game to turn things around and potentially keep Indiana's championship dreams alive. However, as it stands, there is equally as good of a chance that his Pacers days are numbered, and he may end up looking for a new home this offseason.