Indiana Pacers: Way-too-early starting lineup predictions for 2021-22

Indiana Pacers 2021-22 Starting PF: Kristaps Porzingis

Well, we’re allowed to go ballistic in these bold predictions, right?

While the possibility of Kristaps Porzingis donning an Indiana Pacers uniform is meager at first glance, when you think about it, it makes a lot of sense. The Dallas Mavericks’ ceiling has already been solidified if the Latvian is their second alpha to franchise superstar Luka Doncic. And given his not-so-impressive relationship with the MVP candidate and his nagging injuries, the Mavs will surely be a lot more hospitable to the scenario of moving on from him.

As a trade partner, the Mavericks can be the perfect transaction brass for the Pacers front office. Both teams have the personnel to mutually help each other without the competition disadvantage since they both reside in different conferences. Porzingis is the epitome of an NBA unicorn, and while he’s regressed on defense this season, few can match his offensive arsenal and skill at 7’3.

Although the five-year player is known more for his stretch-big skills, he’s a three-level scorer who can also do damage in the mid-range and in the paint. He can also use his agility to post-up despite the Rick Carlisle’s recalcitrance to it and attack the offensive glass with his size. All in all, he gives the Pacers an offensive weapon that the franchise has never seen before.

Booming excitement and all, the only realistic way for Porzingis to come to Indianapolis is via trade. And Dallas will certainly demand a lot in return. For Indiana, breaking up their Turner-Sabonis combo will be mandatory to appeal to the Mavs. The question is, which big will go to Texas?