Former No. 2 pick James Wiseman is joining the Indiana Pacers on a two-year deal, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Wiseman, who was drafted by the Warriors right after Anthony Edwards and before LaMelo Ball in 2020, had trouble fitting in with Golden State’s veteran team. A knee injury kept him out for the entire 2021-22 season, slowing his progress. He was traded to Detroit during his third season and played there for one and a half seasons. Last year, he averaged 7.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks in about 17 minutes per game.
When Wiseman didn’t meet the “starter criteria” before free agency, his qualifying offer dropped from $15.8 million to $7.7 million , but Detroit still didn’t make him an offer. This allowed him to become an unrestricted free agent.
Wiseman Joins Pacers
Now with Indiana, Wiseman will be part of a team that made it to the Eastern Conference finals last season. He’ll likely play behind Myles Turner and Isaiah Jackson at center, adding depth after Jalen Smith left for Chicago.
Fans might think this move gives the Pacers more strength in their lineup.
Wojnarowski didn’t mention how much Wiseman will earn with this deal, but it’s probably a minimum contract since Indiana is close to hitting the luxury tax limit. Although they have exceptions available like mid-level or bi-annual exceptions, using them could push their salary over the tax line and create financial constraints.
What do you think about Wiseman joining the Pacers?
