SUMMARY
- Pascal Siakam was traded from the Raptors to the Pacers.
- The Raptors received two 2024 first-round picks, a 2026 first-round picks along with three valuable players.
In a surprising turn of events, Pascal Siakam is no longer a part of the Toronto Raptors franchise. Over the last few weeks, the 2x NBA All-Star has been linked to several trade rumors involving multiple teams. While he was an impactful player on the Raptors, it didn’t seem like there was much growth coming his way. The Raptors themselves were more focused on rebuilding the roster around Scottie Barnes.
Many teams including the Golden State Warriors targeted Siakam. The Western Conference team was in desperate need of a big man with a high-scoring capacity. The Raptors were also involved with the Dallas Mavericks and Sacramento Kings, however, neither team had what they demanded in return. Sacramento also did not want to let go of their second-year player, Keegan Murray.
We have acquired forward Pascal Siakam from the Toronto Raptors in exchange for guards Bruce Brown Jr. and Kira Lewis Jr., forward Jordan Nwora, two first-round picks in 2024, and a conditional first-round pick in 2026.
Learn more » https://t.co/iEeVumpEEP pic.twitter.com/qD7SygAm09
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) January 18, 2024
Toronto had eventually decided to work out a deal with the Indiana Pacers that was finalized not too long ago. The Pacers have traded two 2024 first-round picks including Bruce Brown, Jordan Nwora, and Kira Lewis Jr. (via New Orleans Pelicans), and a 2026 first-round pick.
The Pelicans sent a 2024 second-round pick to the Pacers for cash considerations. One of the 2024 first-round picks will be less than what the Utah Jazz, LA Clippers, Houston Rockets, and Oklahoma City Thunder will receive.
Will Pascal Siakam make his Pacers debut immediately?
Currently, the Pacers have not decided whether to bring Pascal Siakam into the lineup effective immediately. The trade had just taken place and it will take some time for the roster to gel with the forward. The Pacers will be playing against the Kings at the Golden 1 Center. According to Andscape’s Marc J. Spears, the newly acquired star is doubtful to start for the game.
However, there is a slight possibility that the Pacers will include Spicy P in the lineup against the Portland Trail Blazers. This trade ought to elevate the Pacers into an elite team in the Eastern Conference. Right now, they rank sixth in the East while being led by Tyrese Haliburton. The young guard has emerged as a serious contender for this year’s Kia MVP award as well.
2x All-NBA
2x NBA All-Star
NBA Champion
Most Improved PlayerPascal Siakam is coming to Indiana 🔥 pic.twitter.com/8Wqxq7i2XT
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) January 18, 2024
Pascal has been averaging 22.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game on 52.2% shooting. His presence on the team could turn them into legitimate title contenders as well. On the other hand, the Raptors have officially entered a major rebuild phase. They will be building a younger roster around Barnes, who has emerged as their best player.