Utah Jazz receive: F/C Daniel Theis, G T.J. McConnell, 2023 First-Round Pick (IND), 2025 First-Round Pick (IND), 2027 First-Round Pick (IND) 

Indiana Pacers receive: F/C Lauri Markkanen 

With that said, let’s talk about those potential directions in a little more detail. 

It can benefit a team to hoard draft picks – even if they don’t intend on tanking. They won’t optimize the value of their own picks, but they’ll still benefit.

They give themselves more chances of landing a draft day steal, and a better opportunity to make a big trade. 

On the other hand, a team can rebuild by simply targeting quality young players. This approach may not have the same upside as tanking, but it’s got a higher floor. Teams are acquiring players that they know they can rely on to produce. 

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lauri Markkanen, Indiana Pacers & Utah Jazz Updates

The Jazz seem to be taking the former route. Meanwhile, the Pacers have typically preferred the latter avenue throughout their history. 

Would Markkanen be the right young player for them?