Grade the Trade: Pacers build Big 3 with surprise star in mock deal

What would it cost the Pacers to land Brandon Ingram?

Like Siakam was when Indiana acquired him, Ingram is in the final year of his contract and wants a massive extension. The Pelicans do not want to give him the max but have no plans of letting the All-Star wing leave in free agency. They want to compete and have two other All-Stars on their roster. Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray are the start of a strong core, so New Orleans just needs pieces.

Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz offered several hypothetical blockbuster trades, including sending Ingram to Indy for a package that solves the Pelicans center woes.

New Orleans is looking for a starting center after Jonas Valanciunas departed in free agency. They also need floor spacing around Zion in the frontcourt. Turner is a plus shooter and rim-protector. He could be the ideal fit next to the Pelicans star.

Nesmith gives New Orleans a 40-plus percent 3-point shooter to space the floor and play defense on the wing. The Pelicans certainly need perimeter defenders and could bank on the 24-year-old continuing to improve.

New Orleans will ask for more but may have to settle as the trade deadline nears. If they are unwilling to agree to a fresh contract, Ingram will walk in free agency next summer. Getting two key role players may be the best available package, but should the Pacers make the move?