The Indiana Pacers face a crucial offseason decision regarding veteran center Myles Turner, whose inconsistent playoff performances have sparked speculation about his future. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks could capitalize on this uncertainty by offering a rising star in exchange for young talent.
Myles Turner’s Uncertain Future with the Pacers
Myles Turner, a key piece for Indiana, has shown flashes of elite play but struggled in critical moments. His Game 4 performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder highlighted these inconsistencies: – 12 points on 3-10 shooting – 0-6 from three-point range – Just 2 rebounds and 2 assists While the Pacers are expected to retain the 29-year-old, a Finals loss could prompt them to explore trades.
The Proposed Trade: Lively for Mathurin
Anthony Davis in Dallas Mavericks (Image credit: Getty Images)
A Bleacher Report proposal suggests a swap sending Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II to Indiana in exchange for Pacers wing Bennedict Mathurin.
Why the Pacers Would Do It
Lively, despite playing only 36 games due to injury, proved vital in Dallas’ Finals run. His skill set addresses several Pacers needs: – Elite mobility for a 7-footer – Strong offensive rebounding and lob-catching – Improved passing (93rd percentile in assist-to-usage ratio among bigs) As analyst Grant Hughes noted: “Dereck Lively II… would be a major upgrade as an offensive rebounder, lob-catcher and shot-blocker over anything the Pacers currently have.” (H/t: Sporting News)
Why the Dallas Mavericks Would Do It
Dallas, in win-now mode, could use Mathurin’s scoring potential alongside future No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg. Mathurin has shown flashes of being a dynamic offensive weapon, fitting the Dallas Mavericks’ need for young, high-upside talent.
Key Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive:– Bennedict Mathurin (SG/SF) Indiana Pacers Receive:– Dereck Lively II (C)
Potential Impact for Both Teams
For Indiana:
– Replaces Turner with a younger, more versatile center – Adds defensive upside and offensive efficiency
For Dallas:
– Gains a promising scorer to develop alongside Flagg – Maintains flexibility for future moves The trade hinges on Turner’s postseason outcome and Indiana’s willingness to pivot. For the Dallas Mavericks, acquiring Mathurin would signal a commitment to balancing immediate contention with long-term growth.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers might sign $50 million Milwaukee Bucks star to bolster squad around Luka-LeBron power duoAs the NBA offseason unfolds, this proposal could gain traction if either team seeks a shake-up.