Pacers view Larry Nance Jr. as ideal locker-room addition, says GM Chad Buchanan
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The Indiana Pacers chose veteran forward Larry Nance Jr. over incumbent big man Micah Potter because of Nance’s versatility, experience and basketball IQ, general manager Chad Buchanan said on the “Setting The Pace” podcast.
“Our coaches felt really comfortable with his basketball IQ, his experience, and just his personality,” Buchanan told Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star. “It felt like a really good fit with our locker room as well.”
Why Indiana made the switch
The front-court shuffle came earlier this month when the Pacers waived Potter and signed Nance to a one-year contract. Potter, 26, averaged 9.7 points and 5.0 rebounds while shooting 42.3 percent from three in 47 games last season. Despite those numbers, Indiana believed the 33-year-old Nance addressed specific needs.
Nance appeared in 35 games for the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2023-24, limited by injuries, and averaged 3.7 points and 2.7 rebounds. According to Buchanan, the Pacers considered him the most attainable option among the remaining front-court free agents.
Portland claimed Potter off waivers, underscoring that the move was not about Potter’s ability. “They simply believed Nance offered some things they needed more,” Buchanan said.
Open battle for backup minutes
The newcomer does not have a guaranteed role. Buchanan said the backup center spot behind Ivica Zubac will be contested by Nance, Jay Huff and, depending on matchups, Obi Toppin.
“He’s got to come in and earn it,” the GM noted. “It’s probably going to be night-to-night who plays there.” Huff provides shooting and rim protection, while Toppin allows Indiana to play smaller lineups; Nance is valued for his defensive flexibility.
Buchanan added that Nance actively targeted Indiana in free agency and is motivated to rebound from what he called a disappointing season. Training camp will determine how the minutes are ultimately divided.
Source: Hoops Wire
