The Indiana Pacers are two wins away [from an NBA Finals appearance](https://8points9seconds.com/star-s-postgame-quote-reveals-why-pacers-can-win-nba-finals), and a lot of that can be attributed to their long-time big man, Myles Turner. If the Pacers want to stay in contention past this year, however, they must buck a major trend and be willing to spend money. In other words, they must re-sign Turner this offseason no matter the cost.
Turner is set to hit unrestricted free agency this summer. The Texas native has long been the subject of trade rumors, but nothing has ever come to fruition. However, now that the decision is entirely in his hands, Turner could opt to leave Indiana once and for all after this season. While it does not seem entirely likely he will leave, especially due to the Pacers' current run, nothing is official one way or the other. In order for the Pacers to ensure he comes back, they must be willing to potentially pay the luxury tax for the first time in two decades and open up their wallets to keep Turner and the team's core together.
Myles Turner is too valuable to let walk away
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There are not many big men currently in the NBA who can do what Turner does. He is one of the best stretch bigs in the league who also provides fantastic rim protection. And for the Pacers specifically, Turner is the perfect center for their system. He is a great asset alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, and he provides a ton of value on both sides of the ball.
Moving on from Turner is a bad decision on its own. However, it would be even worse if the Pacers moved on from him strictly for financial reasons and in exchange for nothing. Turner is one of the top free agents in the market this summer, and it is fair to assume he will be highly coveted. The Pacers need to bring him back under any condition. If they don't, they will most likely take a back seat in the Eastern Conference and potentially lose their "contender" label entirely.
As it stands, it seems likely that Turner [will remain in Indiana](https://8points9seconds.com/myles-turner-preparing-finally-put-end-tiresome-pacers-narrative) after this season, which is good news for the team. However, a lot can happen between now and the start of free agency. The Pacers are in a good spot to remain title contenders no matter what happens this season, but if they lose Turner, their run as legitimate threats may be over before it ever truly started.