Why The Indiana Pacers Do The Deal 

Well, firstly, the Pacers aren’t strictly gambling on Green here. They’re also landing a first-round pick for Duarte. 

Granted, it’s a protected one. That’s essentially a moot point. If the Dallas Mavericks end up in the lottery in 2025, they’ll have a much bigger issue on their hands than losing a draft pick. We’d have to assume Luka Doncic fell victim to a significant injury. 

Otherwise, the Pacers will get their selection. Of course, they’ll also be getting Green, and they should be happy about it.

Somehow, despite having two full NBA seasons under his belt, Green is a whole four years younger than Duarte at 21. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Chris Duarte, Indiana Pacers & Dallas Mavericks Updates

If his shot does develop, Green can be a starter or at least a key reserve in this league. If it doesn’t, a low-usage energy reserve and a protected first-round pick that will almost surely convey is a good return for Duarte anyway. 

Is it too much for the Mavericks to part with?