by The GM on June 25 at 10:55PM
On Monday I told you that a trade rumor had surfaced involving the Toronto Raptors and the Indiana Pacers. Yesterday, Larry Bird denied the rumor and even said they were not talking to Toronto, but said that they could pull the trigger on a certain trade any time this week.
Well, this afternoon, the trigger was pulled and the Pacers sent Jermaine O'Neal to the Toronto Raptors for T.J. Ford, Rasho Nesterovic, and the 17th pick in this year's draft. Here is how I think the trade breaks down for the Pacers:
TJ Ford - provides a point guard that can run the up-tempo style of offense that Jim O'Brien wants. He distributes the ball, but can penetrate when needed. If Ford gets into the lane, he can then kick the ball out to Mike Dunleavy and Danny Granger, two players who are more than capable of knocking down the three ball.
Rasho Nesterovic - serviceable big man that has an expiring contract. He isn't going to create match up problems for the opposition, nor will he average 20 and 10, but he is a big man that can average a nice 8 (points), 8 (boards), and 6 (fouls).
17th pick - This pick gives Indiana plenty of flexibility in the draft. Armed with the 11th pick already, Indiana can add two players that can step in and play right away.
Larry Bird said that he wants players that aren't "project" players and he will target players that can contribute while playing major minutes. I think now, the Pacers are in position to draft the best player available with each pick. I think they might target Brandon Rush and Roy Hibbert with the two first round picks. Then possibly, they could take George Hill out of IUPUI with the 41st pick.
This trade definitely tells the fans that they are serious about turning the team around sooner rather than later.
Well, this afternoon, the trigger was pulled and the Pacers sent Jermaine O'Neal to the Toronto Raptors for T.J. Ford, Rasho Nesterovic, and the 17th pick in this year's draft. Here is how I think the trade breaks down for the Pacers:
TJ Ford - provides a point guard that can run the up-tempo style of offense that Jim O'Brien wants. He distributes the ball, but can penetrate when needed. If Ford gets into the lane, he can then kick the ball out to Mike Dunleavy and Danny Granger, two players who are more than capable of knocking down the three ball.
Rasho Nesterovic - serviceable big man that has an expiring contract. He isn't going to create match up problems for the opposition, nor will he average 20 and 10, but he is a big man that can average a nice 8 (points), 8 (boards), and 6 (fouls).
17th pick - This pick gives Indiana plenty of flexibility in the draft. Armed with the 11th pick already, Indiana can add two players that can step in and play right away.
Larry Bird said that he wants players that aren't "project" players and he will target players that can contribute while playing major minutes. I think now, the Pacers are in position to draft the best player available with each pick. I think they might target Brandon Rush and Roy Hibbert with the two first round picks. Then possibly, they could take George Hill out of IUPUI with the 41st pick.
This trade definitely tells the fans that they are serious about turning the team around sooner rather than later.
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Comments
I don't think it would hurt the Pacers to make a bid at Lopez. I think they would have to package one of the picks and a player to trade up to get him. If Bird wants non-project guys then I think Lopez has enough offensive ability and size to get the job but Larry has to go get him. He won't be there when our picks come around.
Well, the trade might not happen now! Both sides say that no confirmation has been given....yet
Ford is BYC so it can't happen yet. right?
I think people are saying that the Pacers 2nd rounder is heading to Toronto in the deal as well.
i think we should get roy hibbert and robin lopez anyone agree