Earlier this year, the Pacers made a blockbuster trade to acquire former champ Pascal Siakam. And that mid-season move was a major reason Indiana could make it as far as the ECF. While Indiana’s dream playoff run ended with a sweep tonight, the future looks bright for the young squad. But with Siakam’s contract expiring this year and $42.3 million at stake, nobody’s sure whether they will see him as a Pacer next season. Addressing those concerns yesterday, Siakam looked back on his season and revealed the one thing Indiana gave him he was “kind of missing”.

When asked if he would want to return to the Pacers next season, Siakam refused to get into the details. However, humbled by how great his experiences were this season, he had nothing but great things to say about his current franchise. “All I can say is that it’s been a blessing. I’m really appreciative of everything. I think coming from where I come from, it means a lot. The support I’ve received here is something that I was kind of missing.”

Siakam questioned how anyone would not want to be a part of such a culture. In a city that already had a budding superstar like Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers fanbase welcomed Siakam with open arms as their new star. While it looks like he would love to return if presented with the opportunity, it might not be so easy for him.

After how well he has performed this season, Siakam would want a max contract this summer, which would start at $42.3 million. But can the Pacers offer him such a hefty amount?

The Pacers have a lot to decide this off-season

Averaging 21.6 points in these playoffs, grabbing nearly eight rebounds, and dishing out four assists, Siakam proved that he is meant for the big stage. With his Championship experience, he could carry the team whenever Haliburton was missing games. Even in the last two against Boston, Siakam had a decent showing, as Tyrese was out because of his hamstring. So, a max contract will not be too much to ask for the 30-year-old, who has years left in his prime.

However, the Pacers are also set to lose a lot of money on TH’s new supermax contract from next season. Several others will also demand a pay rise because of how well they played this season, including Obi Toppin and Aaron Nesmith. Amidst hiked salaries, it will be a tough decision for Indiana to sign Siakam. Meanwhile, teams that were interested in acquiring PS earlier this year could pursue him again with a better offer.

One of the possible destinations could be the Nets, who could open up cap space by parting ways with Ben Simmons. Do you think Siakam will re-sign with the Pacers or a new team will swoop in and acquire the former Champion?

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow in what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video.