The Trade

Pacers Receive: Gordon Hayward, Daniel Theis, Romeo Langford, 2020 First-Round Pick (MIL via PHX)

Celtics Receive: Myles Turner, Jeremy Lamb, Aaron Holiday

Let’s break this deal down and why it makes sense for both the Celtics and the Pacers.

Quite simply, Indiana cannot afford to continue moving forward with the Turner-Sabonis front-court pairing. Both players are quality pieces, but they simply are not great fits with each other. Acquiring a piece like Hayward would allow them to move T.J. Warren to power forward and add more scoring and playmaking to their small forward position.

For the Celtics, the Pacers’ big man would be exactly what the doctor ordered. He brings top-notch rim protection, the ability to stretch the floor, and an underrated offensive game.

At 24 years old, Turner would be a great long-term piece for the Celtics. He is a big part of what the Pacers are currently doing, but the chance to acquire Hayward makes this move a valuable one for Indiana.

Boston has both Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown who can play small forward. They don’t need Hayward long-term, especially at the dollar amount that he currently plays for. Indiana doesn’t need two centers on the court at the same time, but Hayward would add the scoring they need.

This trade makes both teams better. It isn’t an easy deal, but it is one that would make perfect sense.

If this move ends up happening, the Celtics and Pacers will both be happy that they made it. Not to mention, Hayward would be ecstatic to return to his home state.