This mock B/R trade could vault the Indiana Pacers up the East ladder

The frontmen of the Indiana Pacers could deny it all they want, but fans and pundits alike agree that the franchise is in the early stages of a rebuild. After logging one of their worst seasons ever, the ensuing youth movement should pick up even more steam as the team approaches what should be an eventful offseason.

Pump your brakes, however. With the rumor mill suggesting that one big star could move on to greener pastures, the Pacers would be wise to sneak around and monitor the situation, as this could easily be a golden opportunity that they cannot pass up if it ever cracks open.

In fact, one trade from Bleacher Report pictures Indiana as a great destination for this perennial All-Star.

The Indiana Pacers could return to contention with this mock B/R trade

In this proposed deal, the Indiana Pacers acquire three-time All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell and forward Royce O’Neale from the Utah Jazz for guards Malcolm Brogdon and Buddy Hield, their first-round picks in 2022 (sixth) and 2024, as well as the right to swap their first-round pick in 2023.

While the Pacers are currently angling to add to their young core, executing this move could immediately push the franchise’s standing in the league as a potential contender with the right complementary moves.