Charlotte Hornets Receive: C Ivica Zubac, F Marcus Morris Sr., G Luke Kennard

Indiana Pacers Receive: F Gordon Hayward, G Brandon Boston Jr.

LA Clippers receive: G Malcolm Brogdon, G Nick Richards

For some, the LA Clippers may be cutting off their nose to spite their face here. They’re swapping their only starting-caliber center to acquire their new starting point guard.

We think it’s a worthwhile swap. Malcolm Brogdon’s skillset is generally less replaceable than Zubac’s. The Clippers will work to replace the big man as soon as this deal goes through. If they can make up a portion of his production, they’ll be a better team for landing Brogdon.

Meanwhile, the Hornets land their much-needed starting center. Zubac provides an immediate upgrade over Montrezl Harrell or Mason Plumlee. He’s a vastly better rim protector than either. He’ll make the Hornets a more dangerous team in 2022-23.

Finally, the Indiana Pacers walk a line between win-now and rebuild with this package. As a small-market team, that’s generally been their MO. Hometown kid Gordon Hayward should help them in 2022-23. Brandon Boston Jr., meanwhile, is a little underdeveloped, but he flashed tremendous potential during his 2021-22 rookie season.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Malcolm Brogdon Trades For Indiana Pacers To Consider

If Malcolm Brogdon is on the trade market, the Clippers need to pursue him aggressively. He could be the last piece in their championship puzzle.