NBA Free Agency: One move every team needs to make
By Tom West
Indiana Pacers: Sign Nicolas Batum
The Pacers are shaping up well with some new players after bringing in Jeff Teague (don’t buy into the false argument that George Hill isn’t good, though) and landing Thaddeus Young for the 20th pick in this year’s draft, adding some more driving ability at point and versatile defense and solid athleticism with the latter.
Their limitations are still obvious, though, and it comes down to what they can and can’t do without Paul George on the floor. Scoring is what becomes immensely difficult for them, and some additional floor spacing and playmaking would go a long way to them being less star reliant.
After the draft, GM Kevin Pritchard said that’s exactly the case. “Teams that are successful right now put four guys, and sometimes five guys, that can make plays,” Pritchard said to the Indy Star. “The way we watched the Finals and teams that are going deep into the playoffs, that spread four has been something we’ve really longed for. That was really important to us.”
This is where Nicolas Batum becomes such an intriguing target. He slipped just below 35 percent from three last season, but still has a 36 percent shot from deep for his career, and is capable as a catch-and-shoot threat or as a creator at times to take pressure off George. Batum averaged 5.8 assists last season, too, and continues to emphasize that he’s one of the more versatile wings in the NBA. He fits Pritchard’s description at both ends, both with that playmaking and sound defense.
Now, let’s consider why signing Batum may not be so easy for the Pacers: the Hornets need him badly, too.
Next: Charlotte Hornets