How This Trade Impacts Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers would be taking a major risk acquiring Kyrie Irving. They could use a star player to help get them to the next level, but Irving has yet to accomplish much without having a star sidekick along with him.
There was also a report that Irving said he would retire should the Nets trade him as he doesn’t want to play anywhere else.
That is certainly a hurdle Indiana would have to clear before agreeing to any trade involving Irving. But, the most pressing thing surrounding him right now is that he is unvaccinated. Unlike New York City, Indiana doesn’t have a mandate currently for being vaccinated to partake in indoor events. So, Irving would be in the clear to participate in all 82 games should he be healthy enough to.
The Pacers’ ceiling is a lot higher with Irving stepping into the starting role for Malcolm Brogdon. Domantas Sabonis would also move over to the center spot, opening up the offense even further as he and Myles Turner made for a sometimes clunky pairing in the frontcourt.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: 3 Dark-Horse Trade Suitors For Ben Simmons Before Season
Putting lottery protection on the 2022 first-round pick gives the Pacers some insurance in case things don’t go well. They would retain the selection if they missed the postseason but it would relay to Brooklyn should they make the eight-team field.
There are a lot of risks in acquiring a player with the temperament of Irving, but if the Pacers could clear some things up, it would be a worthwhile swing for the fences.
