Indiana Pacers Receive: F Marcus Morris Sr., G Luke Kennard, F Brandon Boston Jr., 2022 First-Round Pick (PHI), 2027 First-Round Pick (PHI), 2028 First-Round Pick (LAC)
Brooklyn Nets receive: C Myles Turner, G Buddy Hield
LA Clippers Receive: G Kyrie Irving
Remember that whole thing about finding a stretch five to pair with Ben Simmons?
If the Brooklyn Nets are parting with Kyrie Irving, that would seem like a suitable player type to target. Myles Turner is one of the best in the business. His 34.9% three-point percentage may not be elite league-wide, but it’s above average for a big man.
The fact that Turner happens to be one of the league’s best rim protectors is a massive bonus for the Nets. Meanwhile, Buddy Hield is one of the league’s most dangerous three-point threats. He’ll be a great target for Simmons’ pin-point passes.
This trade only works if the Indiana Pacers are interested in future-focused packages. They may not be. This Pacers team is notoriously apprehensive to rebuild. They did just swap Domantas Sabonis for Tyrese Haliburton, but that may be the end of the conventional rebuilding decisions.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Brooklyn Nets Not Sold On Kyrie Irving Long-Term?
Let’s assume it isn’t. This Pacers deal nets them two promising young players and two first-round picks in exchange for their two veterans. That’s a great return. The Pacers could be a serious contender in a few years if the chips fall their way.
Finally, the LA Clippers land the best player in this deal at a position of need. It’s hard to argue with that. As long as Irving doesn’t find a new issue to spend the season protesting, they’ll be serious contenders in 2022-23 after this deal.
