Why The Indiana Pacers Do The Deal 

On the other hand, the Pacers don’t appear poised for such a brief turnaround. This organization may be bracing for a long-term rebuilding process. 

After all, this organization traded Domantas Sabonis for Tyrese Haliburton leading up to last year’s trade deadline. It was a solid move, but it did little to make them better ahead of 2022-23. 

With that in mind, the Pacers should take a step further and really go all-in on rebuilding. 

This deal accomplishes that goal. Nassir Little is still just 22 – he could be a solid 3-and-D wing in this league for a long time. Meanwhile, Keon Johnson will be entering his sophomore year. He’s a high-end athlete with all the natural tools to make a bright future for himself in this league.

Of course, the most valuable asset the Pacers are landing here is the Blazers’ 2024 first-round pick. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Portland Trail Blazers & Indiana Pacers Updates

Finally, there may be some awkwardness in landing Payton II, but perhaps the Pacers could re-route him to a contender before the deadline. That’s just how it goes in the NBA in 2022.