The Indiana Pacers are going to be an interesting team to keep an eye on this offseason. Victor Oladipo has been rumored to be available via trade, as has big man Myles Turner. No one truly knows what general manager Kevin Pritchard has in mind heading into the offseason.
Keeping Oladipo has always been the Pacers’ preference. However, due to the quad injury he suffered, Indiana has struggled to be willing to pay a max contract without seeing Oladipo get back to 100 percent health.
Oladipo made his much-anticipated return to the Pacers late in the 2019-20 NBA season. He ended up playing in 19 regular season games, starting in 16 of those appearances. In those games, he averaged 14.5 points per game to go along with 3.9 rebounds and 2.9 assists.
One NBA GM, who asked to remain anonymous, spoke to NBA Analysis Network about Oladipo and what to expect this offseason. He also listed three teams who are interested in Oladipo and could be potential trade destinations.
“I think Indiana is open to moving Victor Oladipo at the right price. They are also open to signing him to an extension. Should they move him, there are a few teams with consistent interest. I think the Mavericks, Knicks, and Lakers are teams to monitor in this situation.”
At 28 years old, there are real concerns about Oladipo’s future. Prior to the injury, he was a consistent All-Star for the Pacers and was a franchise caliber player. Now, no one knows if he will be able to get back to being a 20 points per game scorer.
Looking at the potential destinations, the Mavericks and Lakers stand out the most. Both teams are legitimate NBA Finals contenders already and Oladipo could push them over the top. As for the Knicks, they have been searching for a franchise star and would not be a surprising destination.
Only time will tell what the Pacers end up doing with Victor Oladipo. He would like to stay in Indiana, but the money could become an issue. A trade also seems very possible, although the Pacers could wait until the NBA trade deadline.
Expect to hear a ton of rumors surrounding Oladipo and the Pacers this offseason. These three teams are definitely worth keeping an eye on. He would be a good fit for all three if he can get back to full health.
