Indiana Pacers Receive: F Gordon Hayward, 2022 First-Round Pick, 2022 Second-Round Pick, 2023 Second-Round Pick (via BOS)
Charlotte Hornets Receive: C Myles Turner, G T.J. McConnell
This is likely the deal that the Hornets will push hardest for. They are in desperate need of an upgrade at the center spot and Myles Turner would fix a lot of the problems that they faced this season.
Turner is an elite rim protector, providing a defensive presence that Charlotte is currently missing. This team is very talented, but until they buy in on the defensive end of the court, there is only so far that they will be able to go.
In addition to the rim protection and defense, Turner fits in offensively with his ability to shoot the ball. He is a big upgrade on Plumlee as the starting center. This would enable Plumlee to shift to the bench, strengthening the second unit.
The second unit is also upgraded in a major way with T.J. McConnell, one of the best backup point guards in the NBA. This was an area of concern after Ish Smith was traded to the Washington Wizards, but McConnel would shore things up as an excellent playmaker and pesky defender.
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Hayward is on his way to Indiana as well but with a lot more draft compensation this time. The 2022 first-round pick will be higher from Charlotte than the one from New Orleans that was in the first deal. Indiana may push for a second first-round pick, but they come to a compromise on two second-round picks.
Given Turner’s own injury concern, the Hornets stay firm on surrendering one first-round pick. They don’t save any long-term money in this deal, as Turner would likely sign an extension as part of the trade and McConnell is under contract a season longer than Hayward. The two second-round picks are to compensate for McConnell’s inclusion to help match salary.
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All in all, Indiana lands multiple draft picks and clears more long-term money from their books. The Hornets get their answer at the center spot and a huge upgrade for their bench with McConnell.
