The Indiana Pacers are the frontrunners for former Boston Celtics forward Gordon Hayward but it will require a sign-and-trade deal to execute it. Myles Turner is part of the trade package the Pacers have offered in a sign-and-trade offer for Hayward.
According to Boston Globe’s Gary Washburn, Hayward wants to play for the Pacers and the team is offering Myles Turner and Doug McDermott in a potential sign-and-trade deal. However, Boston wants Turner along with either TJ Warren or Victor Oladipo.
It seems the Celtics remain keen on landing a perimeter player that is starting caliber to complete their starting lineup. However, it’s difficult to envision Boston standing so firm on getting a deal done for that level of talent for a player that could sign elsewhere— giving them nothing in return.
Many have pointed to Turner as being the most logical of pieces for the Pacers to send the Celtics in a potential sign-and-trade deal for Hayward. Indiana would be able to have a spread lineup around Sabonis manning the middle— the focus of their offense last season.
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There was a clear need for the Celtics to add a more dynamic option at the center position and Turner provides that. He has emerged as one of the NBA’s elite rim protectors and would be a major asset for an elite defense looking to take another step forward.
During the 2019-20 NBA season, Gordon Hayward provided the Boston Celtics with averages of 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 52 regular-season appearances.
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