As it stands, it is safe to assume that Tony Bradley will no longer be a member of the Indiana Pacers once the season begins. However, because of his rebounding ability (which the Pacers desperately need), the team may have no choice but to keep him around as they navigate through life without Myles Turner.
The Pacers currently have four centers rostered. In addition to Bradley, they also have Jay Huff, Isaiah Jackson, and James Wiseman. All three of these big men, for one reason or another, provide more intrigue and potential than Bradley does, and keeping all four of them around may not be the right decision. Additionally, Indiana also has Obi Toppin and Jarace Walker, who can each play small-ball center if needed.
Bradley has a lot going against him, and it may be a long shot for him to stay with the team. However, he does address a need the Pacers desperately need, and depending on what they are prioritizing, the former first-round pick may stick around for the time being.
Tony Bradley is still likely on his way out of Indiana
The Florida native can provide value in Indiana, and there is a reason the team (justifiably) picked up his team option in the offseason. He stepped up when the Pacers needed him last season, and he had some quality playoff minutes.
However, while he deserves a chance to secure his spot in Indiana, there is also a reason Bradley was previously out of the league for two seasons before the Pacers signed him.
Bradley is a good rebounder and has some defensive value, but he is replaceable, especially in Indiana’s system.
Players like Huff, Jackson, and Wiseman each provide more value and have a lot more going for them ahead of the Pacers’ season. Because of this (and the fact that he is on a non-guaranteed contract), this likely makes Bradley the odd man out in Indiana’s center rotation, unless the team opts to roster four centers next season.
Regardless, Bradley should have an opportunity to prove himself at least in training camp. After all, his play last season, while nothing too special, warrants him a chance to solidify himself as a legitimate contributor in Indiana.
Next season, the Pacers will have plenty of decisions to make, and arguably none of them will be as important as their center situation. Losing Turner in free agency could work out for Indiana in the long run, but until they have a one-for-one replacement they feel comfortable with, this is going to be a problem as they look to re-establish themselves as contenders.
While he likely won’t make the team, Bradley can still make an impact with the Pacers in an area where they need it. Whether it will happen or not remains to be seen.
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