The Indiana Pacers have opted not to re-sign center Tony Bradley, whose 10-day contract expired on January 28th. This decision comes as the team approaches the NBA trade deadline with a focus on financial flexibility and roster maneuvering.
Pacers Prioritize Trade Deadline Options
Bradley signed two 10-day contracts with the Pacers this month, totaling six minutes of playing time across the team’s last four games. The team’s decision not to pursue a standard contract was influenced by the return of Isaiah Jackson from a concussion and Head Coach Rick Carlisle’s preference for lineups that prioritize spacing and pace, reducing opportunities for traditional centers.
Beyond playing time, financial considerations played a significant role. A guaranteed contract for Bradley would have cost the Pacers at least $977,000 against the salary cap. The team currently sits approximately $5.5 million below the luxury tax threshold and, with a 12-36 record, is likely to avoid incurring luxury tax payments.
Strategic Flexibility is Key
The Pacers retain valuable trade assets, including the Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception and a Disabled Player Exception. These exceptions allow the team to acquire players without sending out matching salary, up to the first salary cap apron. Currently, the Pacers could acquire a player earning up to $4.8 million without exceeding the tax threshold. Not re-signing Bradley preserves this flexibility.
Furthermore, the move creates an open roster spot, increasing the team’s ability to facilitate trades. Indiana can now potentially acquire one more player in a trade than they send out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn’t the Pacers simply guarantee Bradley’s contract?
Guaranteeing Bradley’s contract would have cost the Pacers at least $977,000 against the salary cap, limiting their flexibility ahead of the trade deadline and potentially pushing them into luxury tax territory.
What does the Disabled Player Exception allow the Pacers to do?
The Disabled Player Exception allows the Pacers to acquire a player via trade without sending out matching salary, as long as the acquired player’s salary doesn’t cause the team to exceed the first salary cap apron.
Could the Pacers re-sign Bradley later in the season?
The Pacers could potentially bring Bradley back later in the season if they trade away any of their current centers, as he is familiar with the team’s system and is a well-regarded locker room presence.
As the trade deadline approaches, will the Pacers prioritize acquiring players who fit their long-term vision, or will they focus on short-term gains?
