How This Trade Impacts Indiana Pacers

If the Indiana Pacers want to enter a rebuild, but not a full-tear down, this is the kind of trade they will be looking to make. Myles Turner’s value is likely the highest it has ever been in his career, so cashing in now on him makes a lot of sense.

In this deal, they get back a package that helps them remain competitive now while also adding some flexibility down the line. The headliner in this deal is P.J. Washington, the No. 12 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Washington may not be as highly regarded as he was coming into the season as Miles Bridges supplanted him in the starting lineup, but he is still having a solid season.

The Kentucky product is an improved defender and continues to show that he can fill a stretch-big role in the frontcourt.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Would Hornets Trade PJ Washington To Pacers For Myles Turner?

This season Washington has connected on 41.7 percent of his 3-point attempts, making him a great pairing alongside Domantas Sabonis in the Pacers’ frontcourt. He isn’t receiving as many chances with his playing time decreased, but he is making the most of them.

Mason Plumlee will give Indiana a solid veteran to bolster their frontcourt. While he doesn’t produce eye-popping numbers, he is a solid contributor that has thrived in a bench role in previous stops in his career.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Would Hornets Trade PJ Washington To Pacers For Myles Turner?

The first-round pick provides Indiana with good value as well. They will have the opportunity to add another young player to their rotation or have more draft capital to make a separate move. It is never a bad thing stockpiling draft picks as it gives a team a ton of maneuverability.