Trading Buddy makes the most sense for both the Pacers and for Buddy. It makes no sense giving him a contract extension. On this roster, he is a bench player. Buddy isn’t going to be happy coming off the bench. He’s a starting caliber player on a contending team. Also, it’s a mistake for the Pacers to prioritize winning this season. The plan should be to continue their player development. Mathurin, Nembhard, Walker, and Shephard should all see significant minutes. They are the present and future, and one of them needs to become a star caliber player. If not, then the front office needs its walking papers.
You didn't even mention the X factor, Andrew Nembhard, who plays really good defense and is another qb on the floor. Reality is Mathurin has to get past Nembhard and then add Brown to the mix. Writing is on the wall for Hield.
Yeah, agreed. I had thought they were more set for the season but their depth chart at SG isn't all that great. They've got Austin Reeves and can move D'Angelo Russel over but Max Christie and Jalen Hood-Schifino aren't the type of depth an aspiring championship contender would want. Hield would be great for them - I doubt they have more they'd be willing offer than a couple of 2nds though...
Trading Buddy makes the most sense for both the Pacers and for Buddy. It makes no sense giving him a contract extension. On this roster, he is a bench player. Buddy isn’t going to be happy coming off the bench. He’s a starting caliber player on a contending team. Also, it’s a mistake for the Pacers to prioritize winning this season. The plan should be to continue their player development. Mathurin, Nembhard, Walker, and Shephard should all see significant minutes. They are the present and future, and one of them needs to become a star caliber player. If not, then the front office needs its walking papers.
You didn't even mention the X factor, Andrew Nembhard, who plays really good defense and is another qb on the floor. Reality is Mathurin has to get past Nembhard and then add Brown to the mix. Writing is on the wall for Hield.
Curious to see where this goes - anyone have any good ideas?
Lakers love Buddy. They are the most obvious partner. Memphis and Dallas are two others.
Yeah, agreed. I had thought they were more set for the season but their depth chart at SG isn't all that great. They've got Austin Reeves and can move D'Angelo Russel over but Max Christie and Jalen Hood-Schifino aren't the type of depth an aspiring championship contender would want. Hield would be great for them - I doubt they have more they'd be willing offer than a couple of 2nds though...
So much seems set right before training camps' start. Yet the Lillard trade is also out there still...