Pacers Release Tony Bradley: Trade Deadline Flexibility Key

The team's decision not to re-sign the center was influenced by financial considerations and roster needs.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Indiana Pacers have opted not to re-sign center Tony Bradley, whose 10-day contract expired on January 28th. This decision comes as the team approaches the NBA trade deadline with a focus on financial flexibility and roster maneuvering. Bradley signed two 10-day contracts with the Pacers this month, but the team's decision was influenced by the return of Isaiah Jackson from a concussion and Head Coach Rick Carlisle's preference for lineups that prioritize spacing and pace.

Why it matters

The Pacers' decision to not re-sign Bradley highlights the team's strategic approach to the trade deadline. By preserving financial flexibility and an open roster spot, the Pacers can be more opportunistic in acquiring assets that better align with their long-term goals, even if it means parting ways with a player like Bradley who has been a part of the team recently.

The details

Beyond playing time, financial considerations played a significant role in the Pacers' decision. A guaranteed contract for Bradley would have cost the team at least $977,000 against the salary cap. The team currently sits approximately $5.5 million below the luxury tax threshold and, with a 12-36 record, is likely to avoid incurring luxury tax payments. The Pacers retain valuable trade assets, including the Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception and a Disabled Player Exception, which allow the team to acquire players without sending out matching salary, up to the first salary cap apron.

  • Tony Bradley's 10-day contract with the Pacers expired on January 28, 2026.
  • The NBA trade deadline is approaching in the 2025-26 season.

The players

Tony Bradley

A center who signed two 10-day contracts with the Indiana Pacers this month, totaling six minutes of playing time across the team's last four games.

Isaiah Jackson

A Pacers player who recently returned from a concussion, reducing opportunities for traditional centers like Bradley in the team's lineup.

Rick Carlisle

The head coach of the Indiana Pacers, who prefers lineups that prioritize spacing and pace, reducing opportunities for traditional centers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Pacers could potentially bring Bradley back later in the season if they trade away any of their current centers, as he is familiar with the team's system and is a well-regarded locker room presence.

The takeaway

The Pacers' decision not to re-sign Tony Bradley demonstrates their strategic approach to the trade deadline, prioritizing financial flexibility and roster maneuvering over immediate roster needs. This move preserves the team's ability to be opportunistic in acquiring assets that better align with their long-term goals, even if it means parting ways with a player who has been a recent part of the team.