While NBA fans are still coming to terms with the massive James Harden trade, Brooklyn Nets are already gearing up for their next big move. Considering that the Nets were often criticized for not having any defense in the squad, they are visibly making considerable changes to that strategy. Reportedly, the Nets are looking to add Pacers’ Myles Turner in an attempt to bolster their defense.
Notably, Turner led the league in blocks per game last season with a staggering career high 3.4. Before his injury, he was on track to achieve the same again with 2.8 blocks per game. Needless to say, he can be a very solid defensive asset to the Nets, who are at a lowly number 14 when it comes to defense.
The #Nets have interest in acquiring #Pacers center Myles Turner, although Indiana has a lot of interest in keeping him as well and would have to be blown away by an offer. A trade for Turner is something to watch as the deadline draws closer.
— Evan Massey (@massey_evan) February 10, 2022
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Brooklyn Nets look to bolster defence with Pacers’ star shot blocker
Coming to how this trade will go through, Sixers gained two future first round picks from their trade with 76ers. Packaging these picks along with a suitable player can help them add Turner and strengthen their championship squad.
However, there are still some nuances to the entire scenario. Turner, who until recently was dissatisfied with the Pacers, might have made his peace with the franchise. As per reports, his major issue was fit with Domantas Sabonis, who acted as the primary big man for the Pacers. With Sabonis now traded to Sacramento, Turner might have much more space to operate with.
What does this mean for the NBA?
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If the Nets manage to trade for Turner, a fully healthy team could beat any team in this league in a series of seven games. However, the Nets will have to sacrifice some depth in order to get Turner. Considering that Pacers are looking at a rebuild, a young star like Nicolas Claxton could possibly entice Pacers. However, they will also have to sacrifice some of the assets they got in the Harden trade like a first round pick.
Since the Nets have depleted most of their draft assets in their initial pursuit for Harden with the Rockets. Now, any first round pick that comes their way is valuable to them. So it will be a tough trade for the Nets to figure out their long term plans in lieu of their short term goals.
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