Despite significant interest from around the NBA, the Indiana Pacers are not currently entertaining trade talks involving Andrew Nembhard, per Marc Stein of The Stein Line.
The Pacers view Nembhard as a key piece in their backcourt alongside Tyrese Haliburton, with the team considering him the ideal complement to their star point guard.
“With Indiana in the midst of an 11-3 surge, Nembhard is routinely described as one of the most prized Pacers on the roster and pretty much off-limits as the deadline approaches,” Stein wrote.
Nembhard, a third-year guard, has impressed this season, posting career-highs across the board with 10.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game.
His ability to play both on- and off-ball makes him a versatile fit next to Haliburton, and the Pacers are bullish on his long-term potential. Last season, when Haliburton was sidelined with injury, Nembhard stepped in seamlessly, further solidifying his role in Indiana’s future plans.
Currently on a bargain contract worth just over $2 million, Nembhard’s strong performance has only fueled trade speculation, but again, the Pacers are not looking to part with him. Next season, he’ll begin a three-year, $58.6 million extension, and that commitment to him further underscores Indiana’s belief in his development as a foundational piece.
For now, teams hoping to pry Nembhard away from the Pacers will likely have to look elsewhere, as the franchise is intent on keeping the promising guard as part of a long-term backcourt duo with Haliburton.
As for the here and now, the Pacers are rolling into Sunday’s matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers. It wouldn’t be wise to try anything new now.
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