3 moves the Indiana Pacers need to make in the 2024 offseason
By Ryan Stano
3. Figure out what teams are willing to pay to get Jarace Walker
The best trade piece that the Pacers have on their team is Jarace Walker. The 8th pick in the 2023 NBA Draft didn't play a lot as a rookie. When he did play, Walker showed the traits that made him a lottery pick; his length on defense was a problem for opponents and his playmaking was impressive.
For Walker, his shot was inconsistent. His decision-making was also poor at times. Those were the two biggest factors in him not getting more playing time. Still, the Pacers think he's a really good player. Other teams around the NBA value him as well.
Indiana should make some calls around the league to figure out what his value is, even if they don't decide to move him. Could he be the piece that nets them a star player? Or do other teams not think of him as highly as they do? That's something they need to figure out.
For the record, I still really like Walker. The problem is that now the Pacers find themselves with the ability to win now. They have to make win-now moves instead of still trying to rebuild. Walker might not fit their timeline anymore. That's why figuring out how valuable he is is a must.
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If the Pacers can do these three things this offseason, it will be a successful one. They will be able to contend for a title next season and beyond.