Pacers Linked to Former No 1 Pick in NBA Free Agency
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The Indiana Pacers will have to get creative this offseason. They don't have much financial flexibility and will have even less once they sign free agent center Myles Turner to a lucrative long-term deal.
Following the torn Achilles suffered by Tyrese Haliburton in Game 7 of the NBA Finals, the Pacers need help. They could use another ball-handler, although that player does not necessary need to play the point guard position.
Andrew Nembhard is expected to slide into the starting point guard role. Bringing in another wing who could make an impact as a playmaker off of the bench should be a top priority for Indiana.
Ben Simmons #25 of the LA Clippers handles the ball during the first half of a game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on February 13, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Ben Simmons #25 of the LA Clippers handles the ball during the first half of a game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on February 13, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Photo byWith that in mind, the team has been connected as a possible fit for one former No. 1 overall pick.
Read more: Pacers Linked to Familiar Potential Tyrese Haliburton Replacement
ESPN's Bobby Marks has named one intriguing player a "fit" for the Pacers. He thinks that Los Angeles Clippers' free agent Ben Simmons would fit in Indiana.
Simmons was one of a few players mentioned as possible fits. Marks also urged the Pacers to re-sign Turner to a contract worth around three years for $75 million.
This may not be an eye-opening idea, but it's one that could make sense. Simmons has never lived up to the hype that surrounded him when he was selected No. 1 overall in the 2016 NBA Draft, but he is capable of handling the ball, defending, rebounding, and creating open looks for teammates.
During the 2024-25 NBA season split between the Brooklyn Nets and the Clippers, Simmons played in 51 games and recorded 24 starts. He averaged five points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds, while shooting 52 percent from the floor.
At 28 years old, Simmons would be worth taking a one-year flier on. Indiana has nothing to lose with Haliburton likely being out for the entirety of the 2025-26 season.
Read more: Knicks' NBA Free Agency Plans Receive Major Update
Should things work out and Simmons fit in well with the Pacers, the team could consider working out a new deal next offseason. Perhaps they could even sign him to a one-year deal with a team option on a second year.
It's an interesting idea and also one that would not break the bank. Simmons has shown flashes of big-time potential and Indiana could look into the idea of bringing him onboard and giving him a chance to prove himself with Haliburton sidelined.
For more on the Indiana Pacers and general NBA news, head on over to Newsweek Sports.
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