The Indiana Pacers have been one of the best stories in the league this year. More specifically, their offense has been one of the best stories in the league.
Defensively, the Pacers have left a lot to be desired.
With Tyrese Haliburton leading the way on the offensive end, Indiana’s defense hasn’t kept pace, and they are one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA.
Despite having guys like Myles Turner, Bruce Brown, and Aaron Nesmith, the Pacers just haven’t been able to put it all together on the defensive side of the ball.
On December 15, most of the players who signed with new teams this summer will be eligible to be traded. It marks the unofficial start of trade season in the NBA.
With that date rapidly approaching, let’s take a look at three trade targets the Pacers should go after to help solve their biggest problem this year: Defense.
1. OG Anunoby
The Pacers have reportedly been interested in a trade for OG Anunoby for a long, long time. Their potential interest dates back to the 2023 NBA Draft, when they were supposedly considering dealing the eighth overall pick, which turned into Jarace Walker.
Anunoby may be the most ideal trade target the Pacers could acquire this year. Not only is he a great three-point shooter, but he’s also one of the best wing defenders in the NBA, having made the All-NBA Second Team last season.
The Toronto Raptors are having another mediocre season this year, and with Pascal Siakam set to hit free agency next summer, they could potentially blow up the roster. If Anunoby becomes available, a ton of teams will show interest.
Indiana needs to be one of those teams. If they could add Anunoby to their already solid starting lineup, it would greatly increase their chances of making a playoff run.