5 Moves Pacers should make after trading for Pascal Siakam

1. Find Bruce Brown's replacement

The Pacers cannot contend with the Celtics, Bucks, and 76ers if they remain 27th in defensive rating. Siakam should help matters. He is a 6’8 forward who can defend multiple positions, but the two-time All-Star will not completely remake their unit.

Indiana needs a perimeter defensive stopper in the backcourt. Bruce Brown is an elite defender, but the 6’4 guard was not enough by himself. With Myles Turner protecting the rim and Siakam taking the opposition’s top wing scorer, the Pacers have the makings of an average or better defense with a strong on-ball defender.

They should be looking to trade Buddy Hield and draft capital for an elite defender. Indiana tried to land OG Anunoby, and they would prefer to snag someone who is 6’6-plus to improve their depth and versatility on defense. Ideally, he would be a strong shooter who can help space the floor on the other end.

The Indiana Pacers acquired a star, and looks like they will keep him long-term. Can they become title contenders with Haliburton and Siakam leading the way? It will be fascinating to watch, and fans should stay tuned to see if the front office makes another move before the Feb. 8 trade deadline.