As the Indiana Pacers navigate the 2024-25 NBA trade season, they are exploring options to bolster their roster for a playoff push. One intriguing trade target that has emerged is Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler, a young center who could provide the team with much-needed depth and defensive prowess.
Indiana encountered a challenging start to the 2024-2025 NBA season, currently holding a record of 10-14. After a surprising run to the Eastern Conference Finals last year, expectations were high. However, the team has struggled to replicate that success, facing significant hurdles in both offensive and defensive performance.
One major concern for the team has been the regression of their offense. Once among the league’s top scoring teams, they now find themselves ranked 13th in offensive efficiency. Point guard Tyrese Halliburton, a key player, has faced difficulties in maintaining his previous form, which has impacted the team’s ability to generate consistent scoring opportunities. This decline in offensive output has been a significant factor in their overall struggles.
Defensively, Indiana also been underwhelming, currently sitting at 25th in defensive rankings. This lack of effectiveness on defense has allowed opponents to exploit weaknesses, further complicating their efforts to secure wins. Improvement on this front is essential if they hope to turn the season around and compete for a playoff spot.
Despite these challenges, there remains potential for a turnaround. The Pacers have a young and talented roster that could benefit from experience and adjustments as the season progresses. With the right strategies and improved individual performances, they could regain their footing in the competitive Eastern Conference.
Bleacher Report’s NBA Analysis Urges Indiana Pacers to Trade For Walker Kessler
Indiana may improve its chances of making a deep playoff run next year if they trade for Kessler. This is explained more in an analysis by Eric Pincus for Bleacher Report.
Historically, the franchise doesn’t pay luxury taxes, but Myles Turner will seek a new contract. Any trade that adds a multiyear salary may push the Pacers into the tax next season, but that may not deter the team from making improvements in the short term.
Perhaps the most obvious move is to send out Walker, who may not have enough opportunity to develop in Indiana, for a young center to back Turner, like Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz.
The Pacers find themselves in a unique position as they consider trade options for young talent like Kessler. After a promising run to the Eastern Conference Finals last season, the team has struggled with injuries and roster adjustments.
Kessler, a developing center, could be pivotal in a trade aimed at securing a more established player to support Myles Turner’s future. As the trade deadline approaches, Indiana must weigh their options carefully, balancing immediate improvements with long-term growth strategies to enhance their playoff potential.
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