As the Indian Pacers head into the offseason, a major focus is on keeping veteran center Myles Turner. The 29-year-old is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and the Pacers want to keep him long term. However, bringing him back could cost the team more than ever before.
Turner is a key part of the Indiana Pacers‘ defense and holds the franchise playoff record for blocks. This season, he averaged 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks while shooting nearly 40% from three-point range, highlighting his career-best performance. Given his impact on both ends of the court, the Pacers are reportedly open to paying a luxury tax to keep him.
Despite this commitment, the team faces financial complications. They are around $22 million below the luxury tax line, and Turner will likely ask for a significant raise from his current $19.9 million salary. The team may need to shuffle its roster or make tough financial decisions to make room.
Financial Constraints Complicate Potential Contract
Myles Turner could seek a new deal worth up to $30 million annually. If so, the Pacers might have to move players and rework contracts to stay under the budget cap. That would be a significant step, particularly for a team that has not paid the luxury tax in two decades.
The Pacers’ front office sees Turner as essential to the team’s core, especially on defense. However, balancing this with the organization’s financial health will require careful planning and execution. With the franchise back in the NBA finals for the first time in 25 years, keeping the group together is a top priority. The coming months will show if the Pacers can secure Turner without sacrificing long-term flexibility.
Also Read: Myles Turner Highlights NBA’s Shift From Superteams To The Rise Of The ‘Power Of Friendship’ Era
