NBA Trade Rumors: There is one surprise Eastern Conference team that is hoping to make a big splash at the NBA Trade Deadline.
Through the first quarter of the season, there have been a handful of surprising teams in the NBA. In the Eastern Conference specifically, it's been the Orlando Magic and Indiana Pacers that have turned the most heads. As both young talented teams continue to take steady strides forward in their progression, there's one that might be ready to take a big leap in what could potentially land them amongst the rest of the dark horse contenders.
There have been several reports by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski that indicate the Pacers are ready to make a big move with the NBA Trade Deadline approaching. First, it was reported that Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton was already beginning to let other stars know he wants them to come play with him in Indiana. Then, it was also reported that the Pacers are ready to pursue a star to go all-in on Haliburton as their No. 1 option.
The Pacers are currently 12-8 and tied for fifth in the Eastern Conference standings. However, if they are able to add a star piece at the trade deadline, there's a path toward the Pacers being one of the contenders in the East.
Who could the Indiana Pacers target at the NBA Trade Deadline?
The question is, who could the Pacers target ahead of the trade deadline that is not only plausible but also attainable? The good news for the Pacers is that there could be a few options.
Naturally, Zach LaVine is a player to keep an eye on. He's a player that is under contract for the foreseeable future and one that won't likely cost much. But what the Pacers need to ask themselves is whether a move for LaVine moves the need that much for Indiana in the East.
Aside from LaVine, there are two other natural targets - both of which are on the Toronto Raptors. Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby seem like the most likely targets for the Pacers heading into the deadline.
If Indiana truly wants to make a big splash move, there should look no further than those two Raptors. Landing both of them is unlikely but if Indiana is able to land one of Siakam or Anunoby, they could be one to something with their build.
A core of Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Anunoby or Siakam, and Myles Turner could be an interesting player in the East. The Pacers are trending in the right direction. Their next move will be crucial.