Best offseason moves Indiana Pacers made
The Indiana Pacers did a great job this offseason in continuing to build around the core. Two moves that they should get credit for that we won’t touch on much are the extension given to Tyrese Haliburton and the drafting of Jarace Walker. Those are two underrated moves that will pay dividends down the road for the Pacers.
Trading Chris Duarte
The Pacers trading Chris Duarte was a move that needed to be done. After a disappointing sophomore season, Duarte was in grave danger of getting lost in the shuffle. Getting ahead of that possibility, the Pacers decided to be proactive and traded him to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for two second-round picks. The return wasn’t “great,” especially considering Duarte was the 13th overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft.
Nevertheless, trading Duarte was probably best for both parties.
Acquiring Obi Toppin
In addition to trading Duarte, the Pacers made a roll-of-the-dice move for Obi Toppin. This might be the best move of the offseason for the Pacers. With a clear need at the power forward position, the Pacers add Toppin as a veteran presence that may end up starting at the 4 on opening night.