Indiana Pacers search in the Southeast for free agents
By Scott Conrad
3. Chuma Okeke
While the Pacers are not desperate to make a big splash with spending or the headlines, signing a young versatile big man would help Indiana. The Central Division darlings have received a verbal commitment from Pascal Siakam. Jalen Smith is set to depart in free agency. So could Obi Toppin.
Okeke is a 6'6'' physical power forward who plays physically and can supply some quality minutes on the Pacers' second unit. Last season with the Orlando Magic, he averaged just 2.3 points and 1.7 rebounds.
The former Auburn Tiger's best month last season was in January. He scored double digits three times and had eight points another time. Okeke also displayed some rare range shooting 32% from deep.
He only played a combined five minutes in his two appearances during Orlando's first-round match-up against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Playing behind Siakam and Myles Turner could improve Okeke's game. He has four years of professional experience and made about $3.8 million last year.
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On a two-year tender, Okeke could be a complement to a young and hungry roster looking to make their first NBA Finals together. After all, they were just four wins away.