NBA Free Agency 2017: 5 offseason needs for the Indiana Pacers

Apr 23, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) points during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game four of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Cleveland defeats Indiana 106-102. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

1. Hold on to Paul George

Indiana is all George has known throughout his NBA career. His patience appears to be running thin with the franchise. After two-straight trips to the Eastern Conference Finals, the Pacers have failed to compete in the mediocre East and remained stagnant .

It’s been repeatedly reported that George wants to wear a Lakers uniform. Still, the Pacers should be working on selling him on the merits of the team he’s on right now. Whether it be with free agents or trades, Indiana’s main focus boils down to creating a competitive roster for the seasons to come.

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George has done his part, averaging consistent numbers and playing in 75 and 81 games over the last two seasons, respectively. It’s on the Pacers to make this work and figure out how to get the talent around him.