INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – DECEMBER 31: Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers reacts after a play in the game against the Chicago Bulls during the third quarter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on December 31, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
The Indiana Pacers’ season isn’t going the way they might have hoped. They are currently stuck in 13th in the Eastern Conference and their situation doesn’t look to be improving anytime soon.
Due to this, it was reported earlier this season that they will be selling assets. The three names mentioned in most NBA trade rumors were Domantas Sabonis, Caris LeVert, and Myles Turner.
As the trade deadline inches nearer, talks are going to start ramping up surrounding each of those players. According to recent rumors, that is already happening.
NBA Trade Rumors: Trade talks are ramping up surrounding Myles Turner
Shams Charania of The Athletic (subscription required) recently reported that trade talks involving Indiana Pacers big man Myles Turner are starting to heat up.
Turner is putting together a nice season in Indiana this year. He’s averaging 13.0 points, 7.1 rebounds, and a league-leading 2.8 blocks a night while shooting 51.6 percent from the field and 33.9 percent from deep.
That being said, Turner is supposedly growing increasingly unhappy with his role. He wants to be more of an offensive focal point, something the Pacers have not given him the freedom to do.
A new situation could provide him with more opportunities. The NBA trade rumors reported by Charania listed four teams as the most likely suitors for Turner.
NBA Trade Rumors: 4 teams showing interest in Myles Turner
The Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, Charlotte Hornets, and New York Knicks are all expected to take interest in Turner.
The Lakers have disappointed this season and currently sit at .500. Adding a big man who can space the floor would open things up for Anthony Davis and greatly improve their center position.
Dallas is looking for more pieces to put around Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis. Getting a rim protector would give Porzingis the option to play more freely.
Charlotte is one of the worst defenses in the NBA this season, so adding a shot-blocker like Turner would help them out immensely. They’ve been connected to him in rumors for a while now.
Lastly, the Knicks could be looking for more stability at the center spot. Turner would give them a better option to roll out next to Julius Randle and RJ Barrett.
The trade deadline is February 10, and in all likelihood, Turner will not be a Pacer by then. Where he will end up, though, is currently a mystery.
