Pacers Center Traded To Raptors, Gets Waived
Pacers Center Traded To Raptors, Gets Waived
James Wiseman’s NBA career encountered yet another twist as the center was traded from the Indiana Pacers to the Toronto Raptors, only to be waived shortly after.
The move marks another setback for the former No. 2 overall draft pick, who has struggled to solidify his role in the league.
The Indiana Pacers traded Wiseman, along with cash considerations, to Toronto in exchange for a top-55 protected second-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. This trade was largely motivated by financial considerations.
With the Pacers sitting under the luxury tax threshold, moving Wiseman’s $2.24 million contract cleared additional cap room.
This space provides the team with greater flexibility for future roster decisions, particularly in anticipation of activities on the buyout market.
Wiseman’s time with the Pacers was brief and unfortunate, as he tore his left Achilles tendon in the first game of the 2024-25 season.
The injury sidelined him for the remainder of the year. The Raptors, in acquiring Wiseman, likely intended to gain the accompanying financial benefits rather than bringing him into their rotation.
Following the trade, Toronto quickly waived Wiseman, opting to preserve roster flexibility rather than invest in the injured 23-year-old big man.
For Wiseman, being waived highlights the challenges he’s faced since his highly anticipated entrance into the NBA in 2020.
Initially drafted by the Golden State Warriors, he was once lauded for his potential but has since battled persistent injuries and struggled to find his place.
Over his career, Wiseman has averaged 9.1 points and 5.6 rebounds in 148 games but has yet to meet the expectations set for him as a top draft pick.
Now a free agent, Wiseman will seek another opportunity to rebuild his career.
His size, athleticism, and youth may still draw interest from teams willing to take a chance on his potential.
However, it remains to be seen if he can overcome the setbacks and injuries that have defined his career so far.
