The Indiana Pacers pulled off a blockbuster trade to land Pascal Siakam. The two-time All-Star pairs with Tyrese Haliburton to improve the team's playoff odds in Indiana. Head coach Rick Carlisle is known for maximizing his roster, and he now has a dynamic one-two punch at his disposal.
The Pacers wasted zero time in acquiring Siakam. They could have waited until Feb. 8 and hoped the price would come down, but Indiana wants to win. It meant parting with three first-round picks, Bruce Brown, and Jordan Nwora, but the Pacers got their man.
It is a tight race in the Eastern Conference from two through seven. The Pacers want to avoid the Play-In Tournament. Getting Siakam was a massive boost, but Indiana must make more moves if they want to be true title contenders.
5. Sign Pascal Siakam long-term in the offseason
Siakam becomes a free agent in the 2024 offseason and wants a max contract. Adrian Wojnarowski reported that he is eager to sign a new deal with the Pacers when eligible, but it has to happen. If not, this turns into a disastrous move for Indiana. Giving up three first-round picks and a key defender for a few months of an All-Star cannot happen, especially for the Pacers who struggle to land free agents.
This is the most important move for the Indiana Pacers right now. It falls here because it sounds like a virtual done deal, but the franchise needs to do its part. They have to win down the stretch and prove to Siakam that this is the best place for him moving forward.
Pascal Siakam cannot be the only piece the Pacers add. They need to remain active in upgrading their roster around their new star duo.