The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly searching for a center to provide Anthony Davis with low-post assistance.
A steady 6-foot-11 Indiana Pacers big man could be the perfect fit for the Lakers, but a potential deal may require Los Angeles to part ways with their most prized asset.
“The Indiana Pacers’ offer for LeBron James prioritizes filling roster gaps for the Lakers while giving the Pacers a shot at immediate contention,” Fadeaway World’s Eddie Bitar wrote Thursday.
“Myles Turner would be a massive defensive anchor alongside Anthony Davis (15.3 points per game, 7.1 rebounds per game, 2.0 blocks per game), forming one of the most intimidating frontcourts in the league.”
“His ability to stretch the floor also complements Davis’ interior dominance. Obi Toppin brings athleticism and energy and Aaron Nesmith adds shooting and wing depth, critical needs for the Lakers.”
“For the Pacers, adding LeBron James alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam would create a dominant Big Three, making them a legitimate Eastern Conference contender to contend the Celtics and Knicks.”
“Having two elite playmakers and a capable forward means the Pacers would be exceptional in the modern NBA.”
The Pacers are struggling to keep pace with the top teams in the Eastern Conference, but Turner has played well to begin the 2024-25 campaign.
As a stretch five who can serve as a legitimate pick-and-pop threat, bang in the low-post when necessary, and utilize his above-average vertical leaping ability to alter shots at the rim, Turner has succeeded as Indiana’s starting center.
The Texas product averages 14.9 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game on 47.1% field goal shooting and 40.8% three-point shooting.
Davis would have a blast playing alongside a versatile paint beast in Turner, but the Lakers would probably be unwilling to trade their future Hall of Fame forward to strengthen their frontcourt.
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