The NBA trade deadline is like the league’s annual game of high-stakes poker. Contenders go all in and pretenders fold their hands. For the Indiana Pacers, sitting at 25-20 midway through the season, Indiana has shown flashes of greatness. However, if the Pacers want to establish themselves as a true force in the Eastern Conference, they’ll need to make bold moves before the 2025 trade deadline. Two potential trades could be game-changers: acquiring Cam Johnson from the Brooklyn Nets and trading veteran center Myles Turner.
The Pacers have finally found some rhythm after a rocky start to the season. However, injuries have been a persistent issue, particularly to backup centers James Wiseman and Isaiah Jackson. The addition of Thomas Bryant from the Miami Heat has provided some relief, but the center position remains a major question mark.
Myles Turner, in the final year of his contract, presents a tricky situation for the franchise. With Indiana nearing the luxury tax threshold, the Pacers face tough decisions. Can they afford to re-sign Turner while also addressing their need for a reliable backup center? Or should they act preemptively and trade Turner for a more cost-effective solution? Maybe they could go after Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler?
Looking ahead, the Pacers project to be about $20 million below the luxury tax in 2025-26. That said, they’re currently just under $1 million over this season’s threshold. Navigating the financial landscape—both immediate and long-term—will be crucial. This is especially true with Bennedict Mathurin eligible for an extension this summer and the need to account for salaries tied to future draft picks.
Adding to the complexity, reports suggest that Turner’s contract demands have raised concerns within the organization. This has fueled speculation about his future in Indiana. As the trade deadline looms, the Pacers must decide whether to double down on their current roster or make the moves necessary to reshape their trajectory.
