Pacers Eyeing Frequently Rumored 76ers Trade Target

The Pacers are in the market for Pascal Siakam.

When it comes to popular trade candidates around the NBA, the Philadelphia 76ers are typically linked in some capacity since their front office is known to do its due diligence in the market.

For months, Philadelphia was linked to Toronto Raptors wing OG Anunoby. A few weeks ago, it became clear the Sixers would not land one of Nick Nurse’s former players, as the Raptors and the New York Knicks struck a deal to swap players, with Anunoby as the headliner in the trade.

Lately, the rumors have suggested the Sixers could take a look at Pascal Siakam, another Raptors player who has a history with Nurse. However, Philly’s direct rival, the Indiana Pacers, are reportedly “actively engaged” in trade talks centered around the star forward, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania and Sam Amick.

The Latest In the Rumor Mill

"The Raptors and Pacers are actively engaged in trade talks centered around two-time All-Star forward Pascal Siakam that would send him to Indiana for a package that includes Bruce Brown Jr., other salaries and three first-round draft picks, league sources tell The Athletic."

The report from The Athletic mentions that the Raptors have been engaged in discussions with several teams on a potential Siakam deal, but it seems the Pacers are quickly growing as favorites to land his services.

The Impact on the East

This season, the Pacers have become one of the most notable risers in the Eastern Conference. Not only did they represent the East in the NBA’s In-Season Tournament, but the Pacers remain in the early playoff picture, placing sixth with a 23-17 record.

Led by a growing young star in Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers have a bright future ahead of them, but their lack of playoff experience on the roster makes them a tough bet to go on a deep playoff run in the East this year.

With Siakam, the Pacers could boost their odds. This season, Siakam has averaged 22 points, six rebounds, and five assists through 39 games. Not only is he a reliable producer in the regular season, but he has 53 playoff games under his belt, along with championship experience. 

While the Sixers could become dark horse candidates in the Siakam market, there hasn’t been a ton of steam there, and that remains the case this week. Aside from the Pacers, the Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, and Detroit Pistons are the teams that have been linked to Siakam.

Considering Siakam’s on an expiring contract, a trade getting finalized before the deadline next month doesn’t rule the Sixers out for a future Siakam sweepstakes. This summer, the veteran could be on the open market, fielding offers from interested franchises. Perhaps the Sixers would show interest then.