Pascal Siakam’s short-term future is sorted after he was traded to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday. However, questions remain about where he will be beyond this season.
Siakam will be eligible for free agency this summer, which was a key issue in trade negotiations involving the Toronto Raptors. According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, however, Siakam is excited about being traded to Indiana, and the expectation is that he will be “eager” to work out a new contract with the team.
Initial comments from Siakam’s agent Todd Ramasar backed up that notion, stating that Siakam’s future with the Pacers looks bright.
Reports had previously suggested that Siakam was determined to test free agency, a stance that would have complicated trade talks.
The Pacers were comfortable with whatever Siakam’s stance is, as it is unlikely they would have given up such a draft pick haul if they did not anticipate being able to work out a long-term deal.
A two-time All-Star, Siakam arrives in Indiana averaging 22.2 points and 6.3 rebounds on the season. He will fit into a talented core that also includes Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner.
More must-reads: