In the NBA, trades happen for several different reasons. Often, one team is beginning a rebuild by sending a good player to a contender. That’s likely the most common framework for a deal in the modern NBA.
A team sometimes wants to trade a player to avoid paying him. When a player is soon due for an extension, his team needs to decide whether they want to offer it to him. If they don’t, sending him to a new team may be the best decision.
Yet, sometimes, a trade happens because two win-now teams have mutual interests. Some trades happen for a couple of reasons. For example, the Indiana Pacers must decide on Buddy Hield’s extension soon. They could also use a 4.
Could they flip him for Harrison Barnes of the Sacramento Kings?
NBA Trade Proposal: Indiana Pacers Land Sacramento Kings’ Harrison Barnes
Sacramento Kings Receive: G/F Buddy Hield
Indiana Pacers Receive: F Harrison Barnes
With that, they were told that some trades never happen at all. On an almost annual basis, we identify popular trade targets. Sometimes, they end up staying exactly where they are.
Look at Hield. This summer, his departure from the Pacers felt inevitable. Indiana seemingly didn’t want to foot the bill for his next contract. Has their calculation changed now that they’ve got the best offensive rating in the NBA?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Harrison Barnes, Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers Updates
We’re not sure. The Pacers certainly make use of Hield’s three-point gravity. On the other hand, their defense has been atrocious.
Could Barnes help?
Why The Indiana Pacers Do The Deal
He could. The Pacers need a defensive wing. That’s why they’ve been linked to big names like Pascal Siakam and O.G. Anuboby. Is Barnes a suitable replacement for either?
Well, he’d certainly be a more cost-efficient option. The Pacers would have to give up an arm and a leg for either Raptor. Hield’s expiring deal could be enough to get Barnes. Meanwhile, he’s still a solid 3-and-D wing.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Harrison Barnes, Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers Updates
It will also be easy enough for Jarace Walker to take his place when he’s ready. The Pacers may not need a star. Flipping Hield for Barnes should make them a more balanced team.
What does it do for the Kings?
Why The Sacramento Kings Do The Deal
Keegan Murray is having a strong sophomore year. That’s part of the calculus for Sacramento here. He’s very similar to Barnes, so the veteran is expendable for Sacramento.
That doesn’t make this a no-brainer. The Kings are similar to the Pacers as an offense-first team. Shouldn’t they be looking to strike the same balance? Perhaps. On the other hand, Sacramento could justify leaning into their offense.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Harrison Barnes, Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers Updates
If they did, adding Hield’s elite floor spacing should open up their attack even more. They’re also moving off of an unnecessary veteran contract for an expiring deal. This trade makes sense for both sides.
