Some NBA teams are well-rounded. They thrive on both ends of the floor. These teams can score efficiently and stop opponents from doing the same. The Indiana Pacers are not one of those teams.
They certainly can score. The Pacers currently boast the best Offensive Rating in NBA history. That stat is a bit inflated – a team sets a new record almost every year in the modern NBA.
Still, the Pacers’ offense is potent. This team has no trouble generating baskets. When it comes to getting stops, the Pacers have a lot of issues.
They’ve got the worst defense in the league. If this team wants to make a deep playoff run, they must become a two-way team.
Could acquiring Andrew Wiggins from the Golden State Warriors help?
NBA Trade Proposal: Indiana Pacers Land Golden State Warriors’ Andrew Wiggins
Golden State Warriors Receive: G/F Buddy Hield, G T.J. McConnell
Indiana Pacers Receive: G/F Andrew Wiggins
The Warriors know how important it is to be a two-way team. They built their dynasty on those principles. The Warriors have usually been near the league’s top in both Offensive and Defensive Rating for a decade.
We’ll remember them for their offense. Simply put, it’s more exciting to watch this team score. The Warriors’ motion system has been a beautiful thing to watch.
Moreover, Stephen Curry’s ability to shoot off the dribble from any distance has revolutionized the entire sport. Still, don’t sell the Warriors’ defensive grit short.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Andrew Wiggins, Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers Updates
Their decision to sometimes play Draymond Green at center also changed basketball. The Warriors have implemented some of the most aggressive switching schemes we’ve ever seen by going small.
Should they move a player who’s familiar with those schemes?
Why The Golden State Warriors Do The Deal
The Warriors have been dominant for a long time. This year, it looks like that dominance is over. The Warriors are struggling. To be more specific, Wiggins is struggling as well.
So, this deal could make them better. Hield is one of the best shooters in the NBA. Pairing him with Curry could allow the Warriors to replicate the offensive dynamic that he once shared with Thompson, even if Hield isn’t on his level as a defender.
McConnell is a valuable rotation player as well. On the other hand, this is about landing Hield’s expiring contract as much as anything else.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Andrew Wiggins, Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers Updates
The Warriors need to decide on Klay Thompson this year. No matter where they land on that decision, some financial flexibility will benefit them.
Should the Pacers take on Wiggins’ deal?
Why The Indiana Pacers Do The Deal
Wiggins may be struggling this year. He’s not old enough for us to assume that the decline is permanent. He’ll likely return to his previous level at some point.
That’s the assumption that the Pacers are making here. If that assumption holds, the Pacers are getting the best player in this deal. Wiggins is a strong 3-and-D wing who creates his own shot if the offense calls for it.
That happens to be exactly the type of player that Indiana needs. They’ve been linked to bigger fish – the Pacers may chase Pascal Siakam or OG Anunoby.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Andrew Wiggins, Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers Updates
With that said, they’ll have to give up significant assets in order to do so. Here, they’re landing a player on a buy-low opportunity who can still help them – on both sides of the floor.
