After registering one of the poorest records in franchise history this season, the Indiana Pacers carry with them a legitimate shot at the first overall pick in the upcoming 2022 NBA Draft. As things currently, stand they have the fifth-best odds at the top prize with a 10.5 percent chance at the foremost selection and a 42.1 percent shot to land a top-4 pick.
How the ping-pongs stir the pot for the Pacers could dictate not only their draft strategy but also how they construct their roster moving forward as they enter a pivotal offseason. One of the biggest collaterals of their draft luck could be Myles Turner, who’s had an up-and-down campaign that was shortened due to injury.
The Indiana Pacers’ draft position could affect the future of Myles Turner in Indy
If the Indiana Pacers manage to draw the first pick in the NBA Draft Lottery, which is certainly a major possibility, they could look into drafting one of Paolo Banchero, Jabari Smith, or Chet Holmgren, all frontcourt players with varying skill sets. The same holds true even if they get the second or third selection, though Jaden Ivey could be on their radar if they settle for the fourth or fifth pick.
That means that the top-heavy frontcourt talent in the 2022 NBA Draft could galvanize the Pacers front office’s decision-making as to the future of Myles Turner, who still boasts tremendous value for most teams with his unique dynamics as a modern stretch-five rim protector. Should they make him available, and in theory they should, a considerable number of clubs could line up for his services at the right price.
The Pacers are already relatively thin on the frontcourt considering the uncertainty around Jalen Smith, Goga Bitadze and Turner himself. Being able to snag a frontcourt prospect, however, could help change that, though the contract of Turner may phase him out of the core as Indy capitalizes on his current value around the league.
Conversely, should they draft a guard like Ivey or a wing player like, say, Shaedon Sharpe, Indiana could be settled having Turner back and gauging his fit with the current core, which is harmless all things considered, though such maneuver could still be reserved in case the Pacers aim for a grander target in free agency or in the trade market.
Myles Turner has been the Indiana Pacers’ rock for quite a long time already. However, with the team entering a crucial offseason that should have them picking a long-term, high-upside prospect in the 2022 NBA Draft, his value could take an internal hit, though what unfolds could still heavily depend on the lottery.