Former Pacers forward T.J. Warren signs contract with rival team

It has been a few years since Indiana Pacers fans saw forward T.J. Warren suit up for the team. The former first-round pick spent parts of two seasons with the team, last playing for them in 2020. Since then, he has played for the Brooklyn Nets, Phoenix Suns, and Minnesota Timberwolves, though he has not been the same player he was in Indiana.

Regardless, Warren has officially found himself a new home, one that is very notable to Pacers fans.

T.J. Warren has reportedly signed a training camp deal with the New York Knicks

According to SNY's Ian Begley, the Knicks have signed Warren to an Exhibit 10 contract.

Last month, it was reported that Warren, among many other veterans, had a workout with the Sacramento Kings. However, nothing was reported after. Following this new development, it is clear the Kings and Warren did not agree to a contract.

While he has not had a fully productive season in a few years, Warren still brings a lot to the table, hence why the Kings and Knicks both had interest in him.

On the court, Warren is still a solid scorer, though he was very inefficient during his short stint with the Timberwolves last season. Furthermore, he is a decent rebounder and defender. At this stage in his career, Warren will likely never average close to 20 points per game again. However, he still provides value.

Warren's best assets may prove valuable off the court, though. The 31-year-old has spent parts of nine seasons in the league and has played alongside some of the game's best players. He can be a strong veteran presence and play a solid mentor role, especially in the locker room.

Given the nature of Exhibit 10 contracts, it is unlikely Warren will actually make the Knicks roster. Nonetheless, signing him is still a low-risk move for the team. This is especially true given that the Knicks initially signed veteran forward Marcus Morris to a training camp deal but waived him to make room for Karl-Anthony Towns following a blockbuster trade with the Timberwolves.

The Knicks likely signed Warren for the same reasons they signed Morris--they are a contending team and want to add some established veterans to the roster. Additionally, if Warren can prove to the Knicks he still has some left in the tank, it may become worth it for the team to keep him in the organization throughout the 2024-25 season.