PODCAST: Pacers Add Kelly Oubre Jr. — But the East Isn’t Waiting
The Pacers addressed a need by adding Kelly Oubre Jr., but moving into the luxury tax and near the first apron makes patience — and the next decision — even more important.
On this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast — I discuss how the Pacers were quiet to start free agency, limited by what they could realistically offer. But on Day 2, they addressed one of their biggest needs by agreeing to a deal with Kelly Oubre Jr., a veteran wing with size, scoring and an edge to help the bench unit.
The move pushes the Pacers into the luxury tax and close to the first apron, so a patient approach makes sense. But that patience comes with pressure — especially as the Eastern Conference changes around them, with Giannis Antetokounmpo headed to Miami, Kawhi Leonard back to Toronto, and Jaylen Brown going to Philadelphia.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
Priority entering free agency — adding a wing with size, scoring and the ability to help the bench unit.
Why Kelly Oubre Jr. made sense for Indiana, and what he can provide after spending the past three seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers.
How the financial limitations shaped what they could realistically do in free agency.
What it means to be into the luxury tax and close to the first apron — and why the tax costs money, but the apron costs flexibility.
Why patience makes sense for the front office, especially with this roster still needing time together.
The importance of Tyrese Haliburton returning, and why Ivica Zubac still needs to share the court with Haliburton and Pascal Siakam.
How major moves around the Eastern Conference add pressure on Indiana to keep improving.
Whether another move could be coming — and why the Pacers will have more clarity by the end of 2026.
🎙 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.
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