Why the Indiana Pacers could trade Myles Turner to the Lakers.
He has shown flashes of brilliance, and with the Pacers’ strong player development system, he could thrive in a structured environment. Players like Brandon Ingram and Julius Randle found success after beginnings in L.A., and Hachimura could follow a similar path with Indiana.
Jaxson Hayes brings size and athleticism to help fill Turner’s role in the frontcourt, and Cam Reddish, still only 25 years old, carries potential as a versatile two-way wing.
Additionally, the 2029 first-round pick would help the Pacers recover draft capital after trading multiple picks for Pascal Siakam last year—a move that, in hindsight, hasn’t been as advantageous as Indiana initially hoped. This deal gives the Pacers the flexibility to build around Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam while positioning themselves for success in the short and long term.
The Lakers must pursue this deal with the Pacers.
This proposed Lakers-Pacers trade might not be an equal win-win, but it provides the Lakers with an opportunity to capitalize on the Pacers’ vulnerable position. While Indiana stands to gain valuable assets for the future, the Lakers would likely come out as the clear winner by securing the dominant big man they desperately need.
The Lakers have a proven history of attracting top talent, with LeBron James himself once drawn to Los Angeles by the allure of the franchise. For the Lakers, this trade is another chance to assert their dominance in negotiations and solidify their championship ambitions before the deadline.