Indiana Pacers Receive: F/C Chris Boucher, G Luke Kennard, F Marcus Morris Sr., 2024 First-Round Pick (TOR), 2028 First-Round Pick (Top 5 Protected – LAC)
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: G Fred VanVleet
Toronto Raptors Receive: C Myles Turner, G Malcolm Brogdon
In this blockbuster, the Toronto Raptors manage to flip Fred VanVleet for a starting center while replacing him in the same exchange. It may feel too good to be true, but there are reasons both the LA Clippers and Indiana Pacers would accept this trade.
The Clippers need a point guard. This one is a no-brainer for them. Adding VanVleet to a core featuring Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and a great supporting cast could make them NBA title favorites in 2022-23.
The Pacers’ involvement here is a little less certain. As a small-market team, they’re generally opposed to long-term rebuilding moves. Still, they may not be able to resist this one. They’re receiving two first-round picks here.
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Granted, the LA Clippers’ one is protected: with 2028 being so far away, the Clippers have to hedge against disaster. It may still be worth it to the Indiana Pacers. Undoubtedly, this trade will make them worse in 2022-23. In all likelihood, they won’t be playing for the NBA championship anyway.
This trade puts them in a better position to do so down the line.
