4. Domantas Sabonis: Four years, $77 million
Domantas Sabonis was the runner-up for the Sixth Man of the Year trophy last season, but offseason moves by the Indiana Pacers now have him slotted in the starting lineup. Any job promotion comes with an increased salary and Sabonis wasn’t looking to be treated any differently.
After a deal didn’t seem likely and a trade imminent, the Pacers were ultimately able to retain their stud forward with a four-year, $77 million contract according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
A throwback to the more physically imposing big men, Sabonis is a handful near the bucket. He knows how to use his hulking frame to create open looks and his ambidextrous nature makes it difficult for defenses to take away looks. He shot 59.0 percent from the field last season and was less than a rebound shy of averaging a double-double in under 25 minutes a night.
Domantas Sabonis has agreed to a four-year, $77M guaranteed extension with the Pacers, league sources tells ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 21, 2019
Sabonis has seen a steady increase to his points, rebounds and assists per game during his two years with the Pacers, a trend likely to continue with more playing time and touches.
His fit alongside Myles Turner remains to be seen and could derail Indiana’s pursuit of a second-round appearance. Whether the duo thrives or the Pacers eventually look to make a change, Sabonis’ contract works in their favor either way.