BREAKING: Indiana Pacers Silence Trade Rumors—Myles Turner Commits to Future in Indianapolis

In a move that has electrified the Indiana Pacers fanbase and silenced weeks of swirling speculation, star center Myles Turner is officially staying in Indianapolis. Despite persistent trade rumors linking him to several championship-contending teams, the Pacers have reaffirmed their commitment to the veteran big man, with both sides signaling a clear intention to move forward together.

This announcement comes as a breath of fresh air for Pacers supporters, many of whom have watched the team teeter on the edge of transition over the last few seasons. Turner, who has been the subject of trade talks almost annually since 2019, now appears to be a central piece of Indiana’s plans heading into the 2025 season and beyond.

The 28-year-old Turner has spent his entire NBA career with the Pacers since being drafted 11th overall in 2015. Known for his elite shot-blocking, defensive versatility, and ability to stretch the floor with his outside shooting, Turner has become the backbone of the franchise’s frontcourt. Yet, trade rumors seemed to follow him at every turn—whether involving the Lakers, Celtics, or Mavericks—often painting him as a key asset rather than a long-term cornerstone.

However, the tides began to shift this offseason. With the Pacers fresh off an encouraging playoff run and boasting a promising core led by All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton, team president Kevin Pritchard and head coach Rick Carlisle reportedly made it clear internally that they see Turner as an irreplaceable anchor on both ends of the floor.

Sources close to the organization confirmed that the Pacers made a strong internal pitch to Turner, emphasizing his role not as a trade chip, but as a franchise pillar. According to insiders, Turner was told directly that his leadership, experience, and defensive presence were crucial to the team’s aspirations of breaking through as a top Eastern Conference contender.

Turner, who has expressed his desire for stability and meaningful competition in recent interviews, appears to have embraced the message. “Indianapolis is home. I believe in what we’re building here,” Turner said in a brief statement released by the team. “I’ve been through the ups and downs, and now I want to see this group rise together.”

This development is more than just a retention of talent—it’s a statement of direction. By keeping Turner, the Pacers are signaling that they are not interested in a teardown or reshuffling, but are instead doubling down on continuity, chemistry, and internal growth.

With Turner staying put, Indiana’s starting five—featuring Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Jarace Walker, and Aaron Nesmith—gains consistency and balance. Turner’s presence ensures rim protection, rebounding, and leadership, while allowing young forwards to flourish without the pressure of anchoring the defense.

Additionally, Turner’s offensive development over the past two seasons—particularly his improved three-point shooting and efficiency in pick-and-pop situations—offers the Pacers a unique dimension few teams can match at the center position.

Turner’s current contract, a two-year extension signed in 2023 worth approximately $60 million, will keep him with the team through the end of the 2025–2026 season. While many speculated that the Pacers might seek to move him before the contract expires to avoid losing him for nothing, this latest move indicates that Indiana may already be exploring options to keep him long-term.

Social media erupted with positive reactions from fans and analysts alike. “Finally, no more trade rumors! Turner is OUR guy,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). Analysts applauded the Pacers for resisting the temptation to shake up a roster that appears poised to compete in the Eastern Conference for years to come.