The Indiana Pacers once again rank among the top teams in the Eastern Conference. However, as it currently stands, the Pacers are clearly a notch below teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics. Because of this, the Pacers have been rumored to make a trade that could boost their immediate title chances. In theory, this is an obvious idea. However, there is a lot of risk involved.
Indiana should not make any trade that would jeopardize their future for win-now players. They already have a great roster, a great system, and a great coach. Additionally, though Pacers fans may not want to hear it, the team is realistically two or so years away from firmly being in the title picture. Nonetheless, that does not mean the Pacers should completely stand pat, especially because we know they have a history of proving doubters wrong.
The most commonly-mentioned trade target for the Pacers is Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson. However, there is another player who, despite being a less-exciting candidate, could boost the Pacers in an area they are already elite in. While no rumors have circulated, it is still important to monitor a player who has recently been named a "realistic target" for Indiana this season.
Pacers should trade for Memphis Grizzlies wing Luke Kennard
In a recent article for Bleacher Report, Greg Swartz named Luke Kennard a "realistic target" for the Pacers just a few weeks away from the trade deadline. Despite signing a one-year, $9.25 million contract to remain in Memphis last summer, Kennard's role has diminished this season. However, as Swartz mentions, the Grizzlies forward still showcases his value when given the opportunity.
"Kennard's role in Memphis has been cut this season with the emergence of rookie Jaylen Wells. When given the opportunity, however, the 28-year-old proves he can still provide elite outside shooting," Swartz wrote.
This season, Kennard is averaging 8.8 points, 3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists across 28 games, all off the bench. Additionally, he is shooting 44.9% from the field and 46.4% from beyond the arc. Kennard has developed a reputation as a sharpshooter in the NBA, leading the league in 3-point percentage in 2022 and 2023.
Kennard would drastically improve a Pacers bench unit that is already elite. This season, the Pacers' bench averages 37.2 points per game, which is ninth-best in the NBA. Furthermore, their 51.7% shooting from the field (first in the NBA) and 36.7% from the three-point line (sixth-best in the NBA), further prove Indiana has one of the best benches in the NBA. It also helps that Kennard is on an expiring contract and should not be too expensive.
Trading for Kennard seems like a small move, but it would be a major boost to the Pacers as they inch closer to title contention. It is unknown just how serious the Grizzlies are about trading Kennard. However, if there is even a small possibility, the Pacers must pounce and make their move.