Pacers Expected to Enter Luxury Tax to Retain Myles Turner as Victor Wembanyama Closes In on Block Lead
Victor Wembanyama is rewriting defensive expectations in his rookie season, and the numbers back it up. As of now, Wemby trails league-leading shot-blocker Myles Turner by just seven total blocks — despite playing nearly half as many games combined across the regular season and playoffs.
The San Antonio Spurs’ 7’4” phenom has wowed fans with his extraordinary defensive instincts, timing, and rim protection, routinely swatting away shots from guards and big men alike. His immediate impact places him within striking distance of one of the NBA’s premier shot-blockers — and it’s only his rookie year.
Meanwhile, Turner, a multiple-time league leader in blocks, has been a defensive anchor for the Indiana Pacers throughout the season. He’s delivered clutch plays in the playoffs as well, including a game-sealing deflection against the Oklahoma City Thunder in their latest matchup.
With the postseason still underway and Wembanyama’s minutes carefully managed by San Antonio, his rapid rise toward Turner’s league-best block total underscores just how generational this young French star is. If he keeps this pace, it may not be long before Wemby claims the league’s block crown.
Myles Turner Expected to Stay with Pacers — But Detroit Looms as Potential Challenger
League insiders express strong confidence that Myles Turner will re-sign with Indiana this offseason. According to a report by Marc Stein (Substack, June 8, 2025), several executives believe Turner’s new contract will average around $30 million per year.
However, the situation may not be entirely straightforward. The Detroit Pistons have emerged as a potential suitor for Turner, showing interest in adding the 28-year-old center to their young core. Whether Detroit will mount a serious challenge remains to be seen, but their interest adds an intriguing element to the Pacers’ offseason plans.
Turner Key to Pacers’ Thrilling Win Over Thunder
On the court, Turner’s influence remains vital. In a tense June 6 game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Turner’s defense made all the difference. Clinging to a one-point lead in the closing seconds, Turner deflected a lob pass on Thunder’s final possession, sealing a dramatic 102–101 road victory.
Guard Tyrese Haliburton had earlier sunk a clutch shot, finishing with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists. Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 19 points and 10 rebounds, including a crucial basket in the final minute.
“We just had to hang in,” said Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle. “The first half was rough. We were within reach. We just kept chipping away. Our guys have a lot of experience in these kinds of games.”
Myles Turner Expected to Stay with Pacers — But Detroit Could Be a Surprise Suitor
There’s growing confidence among league insiders that Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner will remain with the franchise this offseason, despite potential interest elsewhere. According to a report from Marc Stein (via Substack, June 8, 2025), several league executives believe Turner will ultimately re-sign with Indiana, with cap strategists projecting his new deal to average around $30 million per year.
However, Turner’s free agency may not be entirely straightforward. Stein notes that the Detroit Pistons are a team to watch in the open market, as they’ve reportedly expressed interest in adding the 28-year-old big man to their young core. It remains to be seen whether Detroit will make a serious push for Turner, but their involvement could introduce a compelling wrinkle to Indiana’s offseason plans.
Turner Key in Pacers’ Stunning Win Over Thunder
On the court, Turner continues to play a pivotal role for the Pacers. In a tense matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder on June 6, Turner’s defensive instincts proved decisive. With the Pacers clinging to a one-point lead in the closing seconds, Turner deflected a lob pass on the Thunder’s final possession, securing an improbable 102–101 victory on the road.
Guard Tyrese Haliburton sealed the win with a clutch shot moments earlier, capping a night where Indiana overcame a sloppy first half. Haliburton finished with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, while Pascal Siakam led the team with 19 points and 10 rebounds, including a critical basket in the final minute.
“We just had to hang in,” Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle told reporters after the game. “The first half was rough. We were within reach. We just said, ‘Hey, keep chipping away at the rock.’ We have a lot of experience in these kinds of games.”
Turner Praises Pacers’ Support System
Speaking to WISH-TV on June 4, Turner expressed gratitude for the Simon family ownership and the player-focused culture of the organization.
“I expect nothing less from the Simon family,” he said. “They’re very accommodating, especially toward their players. It’s something they take a lot of pride in.”
Turner also highlighted the importance of support when playing in hostile environments. “It’s amazing to have my people up there, giving me support. You take every bit of it you can when you’re going into a tough place
