It’s probably unlikely that the Trailblazers could do much better as they are pretty cap constrained.
The problem the Trailblazers are having is that they are extremely cap constrained. To bring in another talent they are almost for sure going to have to trade Anfernee Simons along with the number three pick.
The Pacers would have to feel that moving from number seven to number three was worth the loss of Myles Turner, because Simons and Mathurin are probably just about an even swap. The problem the Pacers are going to have in trade scenarios with Portland, is that the salaries between the two teams are just extremely hard to match given the restrictions that Portland currently has in regards to the cap.
Could it happen? Sure. Could it happen and benefit both teams? I believe so. But doing so would be like threading the eye of a needle, and I’m doubtful that the two sides would find the best outcome for both teams while doing so.
We’d give this trade a B-.
What are your thoughts? Let us know at @8pts9secs