Indiana Pacers Receive: C Jonas Valanciunas, 2023 First-Round Pick (LAL via NOP)
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: C Myles Turner
Jonas Valanciunas performed admirably for the New Orleans Pelicans last season. He will be missed, but not too badly. Myles Turner is an upgrade.
Both men are capable of spacing the floor beyond the three-point arc. On the other hand, Turner’s been doing it since he entered the league, while it’s been a recent development in Valanciunas’ game. It feels fair to say that Turner is a more reliable floor spacer.
Still, it’s on the defensive end where Turner really separates himself from Valanciunas. While the latter’s slow feet can render him a liability on that end of the floor, Turner is one of the best rim protectors in the league.
The Pelicans could use that defensive presence. Between Williamson, Ingram, and CJ McCollum, this team is brimming with offensive potential. On the other hand, they’re lacking in terms of defensive-minded players.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: ‘I Do Want To Be Here’: Zion Williamson Embracing New Orleans Pelicans As NBA Home
On the other hand, the Indiana Pacers may decline this trade. They’d surely have no use for Valanciunas. They’d be absorbing his contract for the first-round pick. If they decide that it’s not worth the hassle of figuring out what to do with him, this next deal will suit them better.
