New Orleans Pelicans Receive: C Myles Turner
Indiana Pacers Receive: F/C Larry Nance Jr., G Devonte’ Graham, 2023 First-Round Pick (LAL via NOP)
As with the last deal, we’re creating some weirdness by moving Turner to a team that already has a starting caliber big. As with the last deal, that shouldn’t deter the team that’s landing Turner.
In fact, the New Orleans Pelicans arguably have two starting caliber bigs. Jaxson Hayes spent much time at the 4 last year, but look for him to return to the 5 with Zion Williamson coming back.
None of that matters. The Pelicans should go all-in on winning in 2022-23. Acquiring the best players they can, even at the expense of feelings, is imperative. Valanciunas spaces the floor, and Hayes protects the rim, but of the three, only Turner does both.
The New Orleans Pelicans could move Valanciunas elsewhere. Meanwhile, to reiterate, Hayes spent much time at the 4 last season. The Pelicans will be able to find ample time for him off the bench as a combo big after making this deal.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND RUMORS: 3 Intriguing Trade Destinations For Pacers Star Myles Turner
Meanwhile, the Pacers make this deal exclusively for the first-round pick. Given the disaster of a season the Lakers had in 2021-22, it could be highly valuable.
