Boston Celtics Receive: F/C Domantas Sabonis
Indiana Pacers Receive: G Marcus Smart, F Grant Williams, F Romeo Langford, 2022 First-Round Draft Pick
If the Indiana Pacers make moves before the trade deadline, they would prefer to remain competitive. They do not want a Sam Hinkie or Sam Presti-esque teardown and want to still compete.
This deal with the Boston Celtics accomplishes that. They are trading away Domantas Sabonis, but unlike the first option, this one provides them rotation players to help now and some long-term upside.
Grant Williams could step into the starting lineup at the power forward spot. While lacking the playmaking of Sabonis, he has developed into an elite 3-point shooter that will help open things up offensively.
Marcus Smart would provide Indiana with another perimeter defensive option that can help replace a lot of what the team is losing with T.J. McConnell likely being sidelined the remainder of the season. He could be the player that Indiana pinpoints as a must-have in a return deal.
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Romeo Langford has been stuck at the back of the depth chart in Boston but could find minutes with the Pacers. He shined in the Hoosier state collegiately at Indiana and could re-find some of that magic.
The first-round draft pick will give Indiana a chance to add another young player to the mix. Or, if a player becomes available that they like, it can be used to sweeten the trade package.