The Indiana Pacers are determined to retain veteran center Myles Turner as he approaches free agency this offseason, while also striving to keep their key contributors intact. The team faces a challenge balancing high contract demands with maintaining roster depth as they plan their next moves.

According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst,

ownership has indicated a willingness to increase spending next season and potentially reenter the luxury tax to keep this core together.

However, sustaining this commitment remains uncertain both generally and with Turner’s deal specifically.

Windhorst added,

Rival teams remain skeptical at this point, having for generations seen the Pacers make decisions to avoid the tax penalty, as they monitor the Turner situation,

and highlighted that

internally the Pacers are hoping to be able to keep Turner without sacrificing their outstanding depth.

Myles Turner’s On-Court Performance Supports His Value

Turner posted averages of 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and two blocks per game over 72 appearances this season, matching his career-best three-point shooting at 39.6 percent. The 29-year-old center has also elevated his play in the postseason, shooting 41.7 percent from beyond the arc while averaging 2.3 blocks per game.

The Athletic’s Jovan Buha reported in January that Turner is expected to seek a contract worth more than $30 million annually. His anticipated salary aligns with recent deals, including Isaiah Hartenstein’s three-year, $87 million contract signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder last summer.

Financial Constraints Pose Challenges to Retaining Turner

The Pacers currently have a payroll of $167.9 million, which leaves limited space as the luxury tax aprons sit at $195.9 million and $207.8 million. Offering Turner a market-level salary would push Indiana past the first luxury tax apron, limiting flexibility for other roster moves.

The collective bargaining agreement enforces strict salary constraints, requiring front office leaders such as team president Kevin Pritchard and general manager Chad Buchanan to carefully evaluate spending. The cost of keeping Turner could restrict their ability to address other roster needs effectively.

Pacers’ Prospects and the Stakes of Contract Decisions

The Pacers stand just two victories from reaching the NBA Finals, a promising opportunity unmatched since the era of Paul George and Roy Hibbert under coach Frank Vogel. This wider championship window intensifies the urgency of retaining Turner and their key players.

While fans would likely be disappointed if Turner were allowed to leave, the financial realities may force Indiana to reconsider if bidding escalates beyond sustainable levels. The outcome will significantly shape the team’s future trajectory and competitive potential.