Why This Trade Makes Sense For The Pacers

On the other side of the deal, the Pacers would be moving on from a fan favorite and former franchise player. Victor Oladipo prior to his injury was a rising star and Indiana was a team to watch in the Eastern Conference.

Running it back with Oladipo could absolutely make sense. But, it has been fairly clear that the Pacers are in danger of losing Oladipo for nothing. This trade would allow them to get a quality shooting guard back and a draft asset.

Kevin Pritchard may instead opt to keep Oladipo and see what the Pacers have. If Oladipo returns to full health, perhaps Indiana could work out a new extension with him. Or, they could end up losing him for nothing in free agency next offseason.

Fournier would bring scoring and more shooting to the lineup. If they were to pull off this deal, Malcolm Brogdon would become a much more important piece. Indiana would need Brogdon to stay healthy, but this trade could actually improve their chances to compete next season.

Just like Oladipo, however, Fournier could leave in free agency next offseason. At least the Pacers would have a second-round pick in a loaded 2021 NBA Draft class. This may not be a big enough deal for Indiana to pass off trading Oladipo, but it would be something to consider.