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After Missing Out on OG Anunoby, Pacers Put 31YO Guard on the Trade Block

Published 01/06/2024, 3:17 PM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

It was not a secret that the Indiana Pacers were eyeing OG Anunoby. With his specialty of being able to guard all positions on the hardwood, he would have been an invaluable addition to the team. But we all know things did not go that way. Anunoby is a part of the New York Knicks now and he is already solidifying his position after their dominant win over the Philadelphia 76ers. The defensive chops of Anunoby are already bearing fruit since his joining the Big Apple.

With this, the Pacers have put a trade block on their 31-year-old guard, Buddy Hield, who has also been the subject of trade rumors. A recent social media post cleared the air about the situation and also Indiana’s position before they gear up to host All-Star weekend.

Indiana Pacers trade block Hield

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In an episode of No Cap Room, Jake Fischer, Senior NBA reporter at Yahoo Sports reported that Indiana has made Buddy Hield available in trade talks after he turned down an extension. He said, “I do know that Buddy Hield is on the block after he turned down extension numbers from Indiana in the fall.” He further added, “And I do know so far Indiana has pretty much rebuffed any teams interest in TJ McConnell.” 

Despite having players like OB Toppin and Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers are extending themselves for a great power forward that is available on the market. Buddy Hield has not been able to give his best for the team, with his playing time being less than 20 minutes in three of the last four games. The guard is on the final year of his four-year $94 million contract and the Pacers are looking to trade him for a first-round draft pick and rotation player.

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While Indiana is still on a search to build its play-off-worthy team, their original target OG Anunoby is showing what he is made of in the Big Apple. 

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OG Anunoby is making his mark

The Knicks were in dire need of defensive prowess, and with the contract freshly signed, Anunoby was taking things over, left, right, and center. He is quickly establishing himself with the Knicks’ roster and promises continued growth in the coming days. Since his joining, the fortunes have turned over for New York as they have won all three games they played against the Bulls, Timberwolves, and recently the 76ers. 

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Anunoby brings a valuable skill set to New York, excelling as a lockdown defender that addresses their current deficiency. Renowned for his 3 & D role, OG’s versatility makes him a perfect fit for the Knicks. His youth adds to the appeal, making him adaptable to any roster.

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It is undoubtedly a loss for the Pacers, so how do think they will make up for it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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Written by:

Akashdeep Banerjee

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Akashdeep Banerjee is an NBA writer at Essentially Sports. After Graduating in Journalism and Mass Communication he forayed into visual Media. A fan of the NBA for the better part of a decade.
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Edited by:

Ruth John