Pacers Pursue Walker Kessler Amid Myles Turner’s Departure

The Indiana Pacers are actively seeking to acquire center Walker Kessler as a response to the recent departure of Myles Turner. According to Ben Anderson from KSL Sports, this interest was revealed during the latest episode of the “Jazz Notes” podcast. The Pacers find themselves in need of a strong presence in the paint, particularly after Turner joined the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this offseason.

Kessler, a promising young talent, could be seen as a key addition to a team struggling significantly this season. The Pacers currently hold a record of 6-18, placing them in 14th position in the Eastern Conference standings. Their struggles have intensified since the injury of star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is sidelined for the season due to an ACL injury sustained during Game 7 of the 2024-25 NBA Finals.

As the season progresses, the Pacers are reportedly looking to bolster their roster, especially in the center position. Shams Charania, a well-respected NBA insider, confirmed the team’s pursuit of a center in a recent article. The loss of Turner has left a considerable gap in the Pacers’ defensive strategies, particularly in rim protection and rebounding. Currently, the team averages just 44.0 rebounds per game, with only 13.1 of those being contested.

Turner’s exit from the Pacers was not only a blow to their roster but also a result of dissatisfaction with the team’s contract offer. After contributing significantly to the Pacers’ success last season, including their appearance in the Finals, Turner’s departure has forced the organization to reassess its strategies.

Fans of the Pacers have taken to social media to express their opinions on the potential acquisition of Kessler. Many are optimistic about the young center’s capabilities and the impact he could have on the team’s performance. The support from fans comes at a crucial time as the Pacers navigate a challenging season, aiming to regroup and refocus their efforts for the future.

The upcoming NBA Draft in 2024 could also play a significant role in the Pacers’ plans. As they look to rebuild, utilizing tools such as the free NBA Mock Draft Simulator, fans can engage in the drafting process and take on the role of general manager for their favourite teams.

With Kessler potentially on the radar, the Pacers aim to address their pressing needs and build a stronger foundation moving forward. As the situation develops, it will be interesting to see how the team approaches its roster adjustments and whether they can turn their season around.