According to two sources with knowledge of the matter, the Indiana Pacers are nearing completion on a trade for Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam, which would also involve the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Pacers acquired Kira Lewis from the Pelicans in exchange for Bruce Brown, Jordan Nwora, and three first-round selections from the Raptors. Along with cash considerations, New Orleans would also send a second-round selection to Indiana.According to two sources with knowledge of the matter, the Indiana Pacers are nearing completion on a trade for Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam, which would also involve the New Orleans Pelicans.
Given that Siakam may become a free agency after the season, the Pacers took a chance. According to ESPN front-office expert Bobby Marks, he may wait until after the season to sign a five-year contract worth up to $247 million with the Pacers instead of signing a two-year extension with Indiana before June 30.
Nevertheless, it's admirable that the Pacers hit a home run. A team in a small-to mid-market may need to take a chance sometimes in order to achieve their goals.
Coach Rick Carlisle of the Pacers will be able to use his creativity on offense when Tyrese Haliburton and Siakam are on the field. The Pacers didn't lose much offensively in the deal, and they still boast the best scoring unit in the NBA (121.6 points per 100 possessions). Siakam and Haliburton ought to combine for an excellent two-man tandem that will also assist teammates in getting better looks.