Why The Indiana Pacers Do The Deal 

Often, these types of trades have a two-pronged benefit for the tanking team. They get some draft capital, and they maximize their own in the process. 

The Pacers should be trying to maximize theirs. To nobody’s surprise, this young team is, like the Pistons, 1-3. Trading Turner would be a smart way to insure that they don’t start piling up wins at some point throughout the season. 

In a vacuum, Turner should be worth an unprotected first. With that said, he’s in a contract year. Realistically, the Pacers should have traded him last season – they may have to settle for a pick swap now. 

That’s still good value. Turner’s relationship with the organization seems strained anyway: he’s unlikely to return to Indiana as a free agent next summer. Getting any value for him now is better than watching him walk for nothing next summer. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers & Detroit Pistons Updates

Of course, his impending free agency should weigh on both teams here. Should the Pistons give up a pick swap for a potential rental?