One NBA writer has urged the Indiana Pacers to trade for New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson.
Gregg Doyel of the Indianapolis Star thinks the Pacers need a “game-changing, buzz-creating talent.”
“The Indiana Pacers need a game-changing, buzz-creating talent, whether it’s this year, next year or in 10 years,” Doyel wrote. “For years, forever, the Pacers have tried to compete the old-fashioned way: Smart draft picks, smart free-agent signings, smart trades and tough coaching to create a winning culture that can overcome the franchise’s inability to, well, to acquire a game-changing talent who would make the whole thing so much easier. How has that worked for the Pacers?
“Zion Williamson could make it easier for the Pacers. If he’s healthy, he changes everything around here.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans & Indiana Pacers Updates
Williamson has only played in 114 games with the Pelicans since being selected as the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft out of Duke. However, when he’s been on the court, the lefty has been incredible, averaging 25.8 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists.
The Pelicans could trade Williamson this offseason and Doyel believes everyone on the Pacers except for Tyrese Haliburton should be available in trade talks.
“But everyone else on this roster should be available. Mainly I’m thinking of the Nos. 7, 26 and 29 overall picks Thursday night, perhaps a future first-rounder, and Mathurin,” Doyel wrote. “No, the money doesn’t work. The contracts have to line up, and anyway, I’m no NBA general manager. Maybe that package wouldn’t be enough to pry Williamson from the Pelicans.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans & Indiana Pacers Updates
“Then make it enough. As long Haliburton isn’t part of the deal, send anyone and everyone. Myles Turner? Sure,” Doyel explained. “The Pelicans already have a center in Jonas Valanciunas, but maybe the Pelicans can tempt Charlotte, holding the No. 2 pick and inside track to Scoot Henderson, with Mathurin, Turner and the No. 7 pick.”
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