New York Knicks Receive: G Caris LeVert
Indiana Pacers Receive: G Kemba Walker, F Obi Toppin, NYK 2022 1st Round Pick (Top-8 Protected)
What the framework of a Caris LeVert to New York trade would look like is a mystery, but this is because there are no indications coming out of Indiana of what exactly they are looking for. One can assume that they would like to get younger and add future value, but the Pacers’ ownership has said that they want to remain a competitive team and not have to completely rebuild.
With this being the case, both Kemba Walker and Obi Toppin could be of use to the Indiana Pacers. Evan Fournier is also a possible trade asset the Knicks could leverage for Caris LeVert, making trade talks a little easier from a financial perspective of both sides.
Malcolm Brogdon has been dealing with Achilles soreness over the last month or so, limiting his availability for the Pacers and backup guard T.J. McConnell might not return this season due to a wrist injury that required surgery.
The Pacers could use another key talent in their backcourt, hence why Kemba Walker could be viewed as a “low-cost” option to keep this afloat in Indiana for the time being. With Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis trade buzz brewing, Obi Toppin could be viewed as a young building block moving forward.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Knicks Could Trade For Caris LeVert After Cam Reddish Deal
Toppin was drafted 8th overall last season by the Knicks, but his upside in New York is definitely limited because of Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, Taj Gibson and Nerlens Noel crowding this frontcourt.
His role moving forward could increase with the Knicks given that Robinson is in the final year of his contract, but Obi Toppin could really see his career take off with the Pacers.
Not to mention, he would be a fan-favorite in a Indiana Pacers’ uniform given that Toppin went to school at the University of Dayton, which is just a two-hour drive on I-70.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Knicks Could Trade For Caris LeVert After Cam Reddish Deal
Caris LeVert provides immediate scoring from the shooting guard and/or small-forward positions and would be another talent that the Knicks can lean on next to Julius Randle and R.J. Barrett.
The Knicks rank just 22nd in offensive rating and 15th in defensive rating, which is why making a move for another impactful talent like Caris LeVert makes sense. However, the cost of getting him could be too great for New York to make a move.
