What could the Pacers get in return for their first round draft pick?
By Tony East
A more simple trade to wind down after the last one. Like last year, the Pacers will be looking for contributors to make sure they have a contender when the playoffs roll around. The Pacers worst position is pretty obviously shooting guard, and the Nuggets have an abundance of them, so this trade could be a match made in heaven.
For the Nuggets, this trade is a no brainer. Barton has reportedly spurned the Nuggets attempts to extend his contract, meaning he is likely to leave in free agency in the summer of 2018. The Nuggets will be looking to trade Barton for any asset they can get, and the 18th pick would be a great return.
For the Pacers, Barton would be an immediate starter. He shot 37 percent from 3-point range last year, so with Paul George (and possibly Jeff Teague) on the court driving to the basket, he could have many open attempts from deep. His athleticism makes him useful in many offensive roles, and he fits the biggest position of need for Indiana. At worst, he could be a useful sixth man behind Monta or GRIII, and he would help the Pacers offense in a pretty meaningful way.