NBA Trade Rumors: Victor Oladipo Set to Leave Indiana Pacers

The Indiana Pacers did well in the 2019/20 NBA regular season but faced an embarrassing defeat in the Playoffs. They were swept by the Miami Heat in the first round, which forced the management to sack Head Coach Nate McMillan. Now, they might see their star player Victor Oladipo exit the team this offseason. 

Oladipo’s rumored decision to leave has taken everyone by surprise. The 28-year-old has been at Indiana since 2017 and still has a year left in his contract. However, after multiple first-round playoff exits, the explosive guard has decided to take his talents elsewhere. 

The sensational news about Oladipo wanting to ‘move on’ came out from ‘The Athletic’s’ Jared Weiss, which then blew up within a matter of minutes. It is indeed sensational news that Oladipo wants to leave, and a lot of rumors flew by right after the Pacers’ playoff exit. 

ALSO READ- NBA Legend Dwyane Wade Infuriated By Indiana Pacers Firing Head Coach Nate McMillan

Oladipo is a 2-time All-Star and the NBA’s Most Improved Player in 2016. The #2 pick in the 2013 draft has earned himself a reputation in the league for his standout performances as a Pacer.

After Paul George’s trade, Oladipo came in as the Pacers’ primary player and has lived up to his responsibilities. After moving to Indiana in 2017, Oladipo’s numbers instantly went up.

From averaging less than 16.0 points a game with the Thunder, the Indiana University alum sprung his numbers up in drastic fashion. In his first season as a Pacer, Oladipo averaged 23.1 points a game and led the league in steals. 

ALSO READ- NBA Trade Rumors: Victor Oladipo Set to Leave Indiana Pacers

Where should Victor Oladipo land after moving from the Indiana Pacers? 

A player like Oladipo hitting the market will indeed lure a few teams to make an offer. While there are considerable trade deals that can work, which team would best suit a player like Victor Oladipo? 

There are plenty of teams in contention. A brilliant two-way player like Oladipo would fit well just about anywhere he goes. However, the Dallas Mavericks seem like a perfect destination for the 6’4” guard. He can ease into the roster and reduce the burden on Luka Doncic. 

What’s more, the Miami Heat would be bolstered with a player like Oladipo on their roster. But would the team be willing to part with a few assets to bring Oladipo in? With the rhythm they’re currently in, it seems unlikely. 

The Toronto Raptors can jump into the race and swiftly sign the 28-year-old on one condition. If Fred VanVleet decides to opt-out of his contract extension similar to Oladipo, then the 2019 NBA champs can move in to bring the Indiana Pacers guard to their team.

ALSO READ- NBA Trade Rumors: New York Knicks & Two Other Teams Interested in Toronto Raptors’ Fred VanVleet