The Pacers have been linked to a few names between last offseason and the trade deadline. The two most obvious have been DeAndre Ayton and Obi Toppin, which would make for an interesting front court, along with the depth they can build behind them.

First of all, the focus now for the Suns is whether they’re truly open to dealing Ayton and if the Pacers have the same interest as last year. Is Ayton an upgrade from Turner? On paper, no. But, Pacers leadership may think his fit with Haliburton could be stronger. They wouldn’t have sent last year’s offer if that wasn’t the case.

In the deal with the Suns, it’s a simple swap of Turner for Ayton and the Pacers use this to offload the Theis contract because they have the leverage with a team that views the return of Turner being the best they can find on the market. Phoenix can waive and stretch the guaranteed money on Theis’ deal to lessen that impact.

The Toppin situation in New York is bad and these teams had a reported framework at the deadline centered around Duarte and one of the Pacers 1st round picks. I think the deal was set, they just didn’t pull the trigger. They do now, before the draft. Toppin finds an honest opportunity to start in a situation that fits his skill set better, and a coach who won’t plant him in the corner and force him to stay there. Toppin could have a career year and flourish towards his potential in this scenario.

These deals set the Pacers up with a starting five of Haliburton, Hield, Mathurin, Toppin, and Ayton.

The second unit is also strong with McConnell, Nembhard, Nesmith, the 7th pick, and Jackson.

Both Smith and Nwora will be searching for playing time, and the Pacers have flexibility with picks 26, 32, and 55 still in play.

I’d say this roster could land the Pacers back in the playoffs… finally.