The Indiana Pacers did not trade for Wesley Matthews at Thursday’s 3 pm trade deadline, but Wesley Matthews chose the Indiana Pacers on Thursday nevertheless. That subtly seems significant as the Pacers prepare for the season’s homestretch with a new shooting guard. Matthews could’ve gone many places, but Indiana was a quick favorite.
Part of the reason is surely his comfort level with the Indiana Pacers leadership. Matthews was one of Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan’s players during Buchanan’s time in Portland, including as an interim general manager. Matthews’ second most prolific offensive season came under the guidance of then-Blazers (and current Pacers) coach Nate McMillan.