After back-to-back eliminations in the first round of the playoffs, the Indiana Pacers are expected to look for ways to improve the roster, especially since Victor Oladipo is expected to return sometime next season. One area the Pacers are seeking improvement is scoring from the power forward slot. While Thaddeus Young is a solid player and important leader in the locker room, his offensive game is lacking:
There's a desire for more offense out of the 4 spot after what's happened in last 2 playoffs. They're looking elsewhere. Not trying to bring back Young from what I've gathered. He's so important to their culture though. Team gets very young w/o him and other guys…. https://t.co/sIv8c9zx0Z
— J. Michael (@ThisIsJMichael) June 20, 2019
Young has spent the past three seasons with the Pacers, and during that span, he improved his production in points, rebounds, and assists. However, at 30 years old, Indiana believes the veteran forward is already past his prime. The team is now looking to add a younger, more productive player who can replace him at the power forward spot.
Enter Phoenix Suns forward T.J. Warren, who had a stellar 2018-19 season out in the desert when he was healthy. While he only appeared in 43 games, he averaged 18.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists. The 25-year-old nearly put up 20 points per game in 2017-18, and he would be a definite upgrade.
The Pacers would have to trade for Warren, who just started a four-year contract extension this season. Indiana could dangle the No. 18 pick in this year's draft if it so chooses.
As for Young, he's a veteran forward who can still help a contender, but is probably better in a smaller role.
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