There have been murmurs of a Pacers and Lakers trade for years now, and one finally came to fruition. It just probably isn’t what you would have expected.
As first reported by Adrian Wojnarowski, the Pacers are sending the 40th pick to the Lakers for the 47th pick and cash considerations.
The Los Angeles Lakers are acquiring the 40th pick from the Indiana Pacers for No. 47 and cash, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 22, 2023
At first it wasn’t clear how much cash was going to be involved, but Pacers’ insiders were able to confirm the amount of cash that was involved as part of the deal.
It’s $4.35 million in cash from the Lakers to the Pacers, per source https://t.co/JNbnQN82i6
— Tony East (@TonyREast) June 22, 2023
If the Pacers feel that the talent isn’t really different between pick 40 and 47, then this is a no-brainer deal between the two franchises, and a good one for the Pacers. While it isn’t the reported Turner/Hield deal we have seen rumored for so long, it’s continued wise use of our assets.
But it sounds like the Pacers aren’t done yet. Pacers’ reporter Scott Agness is reporting that the Pacers likely aren’t done yet.
The Pacers have now exchanged picks twice, first the Nuggets and now Lakers. And they're not done.
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) June 22, 2023
They're very active on the trade market trying to acquire a veteran wing and in talks with multiple teams, I'm told.
As such, fans have a lot to be excited about in the coming hours. But one thing is absolutely certain.
The front office is desperately trying to quickly improve this team.
Are you wanting a winner in Indianapolis? Than you are likely going to get what you want with this front office who is trying to upgrade the roster quickly. Keep your eyes to the media over the coming hours to see if the Pacers are able to pull off a major trade to bring in a wing. It’s likely that in the coming hours we may learn even more about what the Pacers’ plans are for the rest of the offseason, and more importantly, who will be donning the Blue and Gold for next season.
NBA Insider: Talks between Indiana Pacers and Atlanta Hawks broke down
It sounds like the Pacers are being very active in trade ideas as the teams approach the NBA draft. And this makes sense given the importance of the day.