Pacers Add Cody Martin on 10-Day Deal Amid Hardship Situation

The Indiana Pacers are set to welcome forward Cody Martin into the fold, as reported by hoopswire.com. This acquisition will occur through a hardship exception, allowing the team to sign Martin to a 10-day contract. The decision reflects the Pacers’ current roster challenges and the need for additional depth.

Cody Martin, now 30, has had a varied career in the NBA, primarily spending his earlier years with the Charlotte Hornets. His journey took an unexpected turn last February when he was traded to the Phoenix Suns as part of a larger deal involving Vasilije Micic and Jusuf Nurkic. Although Martin has shown flashes of potential as a versatile two-way player, injuries have impacted his performance over the last couple of seasons.

During the 2021-22 campaign, Martin had a notable season, averaging 7.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.2 steals, while demonstrating efficiency with a shooting percentage of 48% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc. However, his ability to maintain that level of play was hindered by injuries, as he appeared in just 35 games over the subsequent two years. Last season, he managed to participate in 53 games split between Charlotte and Phoenix, but his shooting percentages took a hit, dropping to 41.8% overall and a concerning 28.5% from three-point range. Ultimately, the Suns waived him on June 30, leaving him as a free agent.

The Pacers find themselves in a unique situation with a full roster and are resorting to the hardship exception due to several players missing from their lineup. Currently, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl is also on a hardship contract, making the addition of Martin crucial. If the league grants the Pacers a second hardship exception, they will be able to retain Robinson-Earl while incorporating Martin into the squad.

A hardship exception is typically granted when a team has four players who have missed three consecutive games and are expected to be sidelined for at least two more weeks. If five players meet these criteria, a team may be awarded a second hardship exception, allowing for further roster flexibility.

By bringing in Martin, the Pacers are not only looking to bolster their depth but also hoping to tap into his potential as a two-way player. With the NBA season in full swing, the addition of Martin could provide the team with an opportunity to enhance their performance on both ends of the court.

As the Pacers navigate the challenges of the current season, Martin’s experience and versatility may prove invaluable. The 10-day contract provides a chance for both the player and the team to evaluate their fit, potentially leading to a more significant role if he can showcase his abilities effectively during this brief period.