The arrival of Pascal Siakam was one of the big hits of this winter, and the leaders of the Pacers were right! His arrival should take the franchise a step further, and they are not mistaken since Indiana qualified last night against the Bucks. This is a first since 2014.
To bring in the former NBA champion, the Pacers had sacrificed Bruce Brown Jr., Jordan Nwora, and above all three future first rounds of the Draft. It was worth it!
“This is one of the reasons why we brought in Pascal Siakam”, satisfied Rick Carlisle. “To not only have a chance to make the playoffs, but also to advance in the playoffs. He showed tonight how much of a difference he makes. He is also a great teammate and a great leader. »
Pascal, the big brother
Throughout the first round against the Bucks, the All-Star winger was remarkable with an average of 22.3 points on 55% shooting, but also 8.8 rebounds and 4.2 assists. During the first two games of the series, Siakam even broke his record for points in the playoffs with 36 then 37 units scored.
But his contribution does not stop there since Siakam has established himself as an executive and a mentor within a workforce where the average age exceeds 25 and beyond.
“ Siakam coming here was an important thing for us”confirms Obi Toppin. “He has a ring, and he's been around great players… When you have experience in the playoffs, it's a little easier to tell the players what needs to be done. We all listen to it. »
An idyll taking shape?
For Siakam, this transfer was a win-win since he had not participated in the playoffs since 2022, and an elimination in the first round against the Sixers. Coming to Indianapolis, finalist of the NBA Cup, the Cameroonian wanted to find an ambitious team.
“I’m so excited. This is why I came here.”Siakam said on the microphone in front of Pacers fans. “I wanted to participate in this type of match, I wanted to play for you. I hope we continue to make you proud. »
Free from any contract this summer, Siakam put his teammates and his new audience in his pocket. All lights are green for a return next season, everything below is just a bonus. Starting with this series against the Knicks in the conference semi-finals.
