3 moves the Indiana Pacers need to make in the 2024 offseason
By Ryan Stano
2. Trade for a defensive-minded wing with length
In order for the Pacers to really to be considered a contender, they have to be better on defense. It's clear that they have enough offense to win it all, but they have to be able to stop the other team. The Celtics showed that in the Eastern Conference Finals.
The biggest area of weakness on defense comes from a lack of length. The Pacers need to get a defensive-minded wing that has length. That would help teams from picking on Tyrese Haliburton so much on defense. Andrew Nembhard also needs some help with bigger guards.
Getting a wing who is great on defense is the last remaining piece that the starting five needs. The best way to do that is to trade for one. The Pacers have a decent number of assets that they can part with in order to get this wing, who ideally would be a star player.
A player like Mikal Bridges would be the perfect player to get. The problem is that the Nets are asking for a lot for him. Would a sign-and-trade with Obi Tobin, Jarace Walker, and two first-round picks get it done? That seems like a fair offer for the Pacers to make.
There are other players besides Bridges who would fit the bill as well. OG Anunonby, Brandon Ingram, and Paul George would all be good options. Two of those guys would have to be sign-and-trade guys, but those details can be figured out.
The final thing the Pacers need to do this offseason is figure out what one of their best trade pieces is worth.