Indiana Pacers
Indiana Pacers Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: C Myles Turner, G/F Buddy Hield
Recently, reports have suggested that talks between these teams have stalled. Allegedly, the Lakers are hesitant to include two first-round picks in return for Turner and Hield.
They ought to seriously reconsider that stance. We’ve already touched on this team’s urgent timeline. With LeBron James nearing retirement, the Lakers have to get better in 2022-23.
This trade ought to go a long way towards that helping them reach that goal. Turner’s presence allows Anthony Davis to stay at his preferred 4 position. Their combined length and instincts should give the Lakers the best interior defense in the NBA. Meanwhile, Turner’s floor spacing will come in handy in case Davis has another down year from distance.
Meanwhile, the Lakers finally land Buddy Hield here. Some fans will remember that they nearly acquired him before landing on Russell Westbrook instead. This deal allows them to correct the mistakes of the past by adding his elite floor-spacing.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND RUMORS: Jazz, Knicks, Pacers Talked Lakers Russell Westbrook Trade
At a cost, of course. Nonetheless, for a team in the Lakers’ situation, this is a cost worth paying.
