The Indiana Pacers are coming off being swept in the Eastern Conference Finals by the Boston Celtics. While they had opportunities to win a couple of games, the combination of injured players and the Celtics stars proved to be too much. However, the franchise is confident in what they have for the future. They now move into the 2024 offseason, and reports indicate they have one top priority: signing Pascal Siakam to a max contract.
Indiana Pacers Expected To Offer Pascal Siakam Max Contract
Shams Charania of The Athletic reported the Indiana Pacers are prioritizing bringing back Pascal Siakam and are prepared to give him a max contract. The team traded Bruce Brown, Jordan Nwora, Kira Lewis Jr., and three first-round picks for the former All-NBA player so it makes sense they want to keep him around. His play on the court is a big reason why as well.
He played 41 games, exactly half the season, with the Indiana Pacers and averaged 21.3 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists. When Tyrese Haliburton went down with a hamstring injury, Pascal Siakam took on the scoring load and kept the games competitive. For what it is worth, Siakam seems to be positive about his time in Indiana, making it likely he would be interested in staying.
“It’s been a blessing,” Siakam told reporters Monday night. “I’m really appreciative of everything. Coming from where I come from, it means a lot.”
Competition For Siakam?
The Indiana Pacers will likely have some competition for Pascal Siakam. Philadelphia is a team to watch as they have cap space and a roster that is ready to win now. They were reportedly interested in the former Toronto Raptor before the deadline before Indiana made the deal. Plenty of other teams would love to have a two-way veteran player on their team as well. However, the Pacers have one huge advantage.
The maximum any other team can offer Pascal Siakam is four years and $183.2 million. Because of how the CBA is set up, the Indiana Pacers can offer five years, $245 million. It is difficult to see Pascal Siakam turning down an extra $60 million unless he really hated his time with the team. Another positive factor is the fact Indiana made it to the conference finals and the rest of the teams in the East have major questions.
Future Of The East
This year might not be a fluke for the Indiana Pacers. While Boston should be the favorite again next year, the other teams have major questions. Cleveland’s future is in doubt, as it seems either Donovan Mitchell or Darius Garland will be playing elsewhere next year. Milwaukee will be a year older and already has an aging roster. The Knicks have roster questions, and so does the Magic. Philadelphia will be back, but they are far from being a juggernaut.
It isn’t out of the realm of possibility that the Indiana Pacers get back to the conference finals with Pascal Siakam on the team. The financial advantage paired with the team’s success makes it likely they will be able to get a deal done. Still, nothing is official until pen hits the paper so it is still something to watch this offseason.
About The Author
Matt Brown is one of the owners at Total Apex. He has been writing about sports and entertainment for over two years and currently works as a banker in Wisconsin. His passion for sports and entertainment knows no bounds, but football is the sport he follows most closely. However, he is never afraid to branch out, and you will see him talk about anything sports with anyone who will listen.
For More Great Content
Total Apex is an all-encompassing content producer. We provide heavily detailed articles every day on entertainment, gaming, sports, and so much more! Check out all our great sports content at Total Apex Sports. Check us out on X @TotalApexEandG and our other sites: Total Apex Sports Bets and Total Apex Fantasy Sports.
