NBA Rumors: Pacers, Bennedict Mathurin, Celtics, Anfernee Simons, Heat

Pacers

Indiana’s front office may be nearing a decision point with Bennedict Mathurin.

After failing to reach an extension in October, Mathurin has responded with the best season of his career, averaging 20.1 points per game and delivering consecutive 25-point outings for just the second time.

ESPN’s Bobby Marks notes the Pacers must decide whether they are comfortable carrying Mathurin through the season and into restricted free agency this summer, when Indiana would have the right to match any offer.

Financially, the Pacers are positioned to stay flexible. They are projected to sit roughly $16 million below the luxury tax next season, not counting a potential lottery pick, and have not paid the tax since 2005-06.

Indiana is also searching for a starting center after losing Myles Turner in free agency, and Marks writes the team has both the draft capital and tradeable contracts to be aggressive if it chooses.

Celtics

Boston’s season has not followed a gap-year script.

Despite missing three starters, the Celtics remain among the East’s top teams, with Jaylen Brown entering early MVP discussions. Marks raises the question of whether Boston’s overachievement could make the front office more active than expected.

If Jayson Tatum is unable to return in time for a deep playoff run, Marks suggests Boston could explore frontcourt upgrades using Anfernee Simons’ $27.7 million expiring contract and draft assets. While the Celtics are not hard capped, apron-related restrictions would still limit how aggressively they can operate.

Boston controls multiple future first-round picks, giving it optionality should it decide to push chips forward.

Heat

Miami’s trade outlook may hinge on Terry Rozier’s contract.

Marks notes that Rozier’s $26.6 million expiring deal could become a significant trade asset following his October arrest and subsequent leave from the team. The contract’s size and flexibility could allow Miami to participate in larger conversations, particularly if a star becomes available.

The Heat are hard capped but possess multiple trade exceptions, along with several sizable expiring contracts. Marks specifically points to Rozier’s deal as one to watch, especially if the market shifts and a high-profile name such as Giannis Antetokounmpo becomes attainable.