Pacers pick up option year on former Gonzaga standout Domantas Sabonis’ contract
Former Gonzaga standout Domantas Sabonis seems to be making a good impression with his new team.
Indiana announced Friday it has picked up the third-year contract option on Sabonis, who was dealt from Oklahoma City this summer along with Victor Oladipo in exchange for Paul George.
Sabonis, who will earn $2.55 million this season, will make $2.659 million in his third NBA season in 2019.
Sabonis has made 48 percent of his shots while averaging 12.3 points and 8.3 rebounds in three preseason games. He started 66 games as a rookie with Oklahoma City, averaging 5.9 points and 3.6 rebounds.
Sabonis has been one of the Pacers’ most consistent players in the preseason. He’s not expected to start but should see extended minutes coming off the bench.
“I think he’s a solid player, I really like him,” Pacers coach Nate McMillan told the Indianapolis Star. “He just brings a calmness to the game when he’s out on the floor. Handling the ball, setting screens. He’s making good decisions once he catches the ball. His basketball IQ is very high. I think he just makes players better because he understands the game.”
Sabonis played two seasons at Gonzaga before becoming an NBA lottery pick. He averaged 17.6 points and 11.8 rebounds as a sophomore.