Making the Case: Indiana Pacers

In a sign-and-trade deal, returns are not usually as fair as they are in a straightforward trade. Still, a return of NAW and Hernangomez could be a boost to a rebuilding Indiana team.

Any player who has flashed star potential could benefit from playing on a rebuilding team. In Indiana, NAW could be a scoring counterpart to backcourt facilitator Tyrese Haliburton. With regular starting minutes, NAW could make his 30-point outbursts a regular thing.

Juancho Hernangomez presents a valuable depth piece, particularly for Indiana, who lacks wing depth. Hernangomez shot over 40% from deep in his short stint with Utah. His size allows him to be a versatile defender, who would fit well next to towering rim-protector Myles Turner.

This move, just as it is for Utah, would be low-risk for Indiana. TJ Warren hasn’t played for the Indiana Pacers in almost two full seasons – they’d essentially be trading away a player they already lost in 2020.

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This deal doesn’t have superstar names involved – but it has the potential to shake up the league. TJ Warren’s scoring could bolster Utah to contender status, while NAW could unlock his potential and form a lethal backcourt duo with Tyrese Haliburton. For a low-risk, high-reward move like this, both teams would be wise to take a swing.