As the NBA trade deadline rapidly approaches, the Indiana Pacers find themselves at a crossroads - and the clock is ticking. After reports earlier this month linked them to Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu, it now appears that particular door is firmly closed. Despite Indiana's interest, league sources indicate the Hawks have no real intention of moving the 25-year-old big man, who’s steadily becoming a cornerstone in Atlanta’s frontcourt.
Okongwu has drawn attention across the league, not just from Indiana. And it’s easy to see why.
He’s a two-way presence, capable of anchoring a defense while also flashing offensive versatility. This season, he’s knocking down a career-best 36.7% from three on a surprising 5.4 attempts per game - a significant leap that adds a new layer to his game.
Add that to his rim protection and switchability on defense, and you’ve got a modern big who fits just about anywhere.
But while the Pacers would’ve loved to bring in a player like that, the reality is simple: the price tag was always going to be steep. Okongwu isn’t just a good player - he’s a young, ascending one on a team that’s not looking to hit the reset button. Unless Atlanta suddenly decides to swing big and reconfigure its core, Okongwu isn’t going anywhere.
That leaves Indiana still searching for answers at center - a position that’s been in flux since Myles Turner left in the offseason. The Pacers have cycled through a revolving door of big men this year, trying out Jay Huff, Isaiah Jackson, Tony Bradley (twice), James Wiseman (twice), and Micah Potter.
But none have proven to be long-term solutions. Huff might have the best shot, but even that feels like a stretch for a team that’s trying to build around a healthy Tyrese Haliburton and re-establish itself as a contender in the East.
So what’s next?
Indiana has been linked to several other names on the trade market: Ivica Zubac, Walker Kessler, Daniel Gafford, Yves Missi, and Nick Richards. Each brings something different to the table, but none are slam-dunk answers. Some may be out of reach due to cost or team fit, while others might not offer enough upside to justify a midseason shake-up.
That puts the Pacers in a tough spot. Do they make a move now - potentially overpaying just to plug a hole - or ride it out with what they have and reassess in the summer? It’s a classic deadline dilemma: short-term fix versus long-term vision.
One thing is clear: Indiana needs to figure out its frontcourt situation sooner rather than later. The team has talent, a rising star in Haliburton, and aspirations that go beyond just making the playoffs. But without a reliable anchor in the middle, it’s hard to see them taking that next step.
For now, Onyeka Okongwu is off the table. But the Pacers are still in the market - and with the deadline less than a week away, they’ll be a team to keep a close eye on.