The Indiana Pacers are going into rebuild mode. For this reason, a Malcolm Brogdon trade is likely in the cards. He’ll be a hot commodity for teams looking to contend, while the Pacers have their future star in Tyrese Haliburton. Brogdon averaged about 19 points, six assists, and five boards last season. His three-point shooting dipped in a large way, but his career suggests that he’s a very solid shooter. He’s certainly a starter in this league, and Indiana will be receiving plenty of calls.
Three Malcolm Brogdon Trade Ideas
A Contender in the Capital
Indiana Pacers receive Rui Hachimura, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and a second-round pick.
Washington Wizards receive Malcolm Brogdon.
Brogdon has a large contract and will turn 30-years-old early next season. This makes him expendable for the Pacers.
Should Washington retain Bradley Beal, then they’ll be in the market for a point guard. Brogdon looks to be a perfect fit as he’s more than willing to be a facilitator over a scorer. Beal is capable of filling up the stat sheet, but Washington has other pieces as well. Adding Brogdon to a team with Beal, Kristaps Porzingis, and Kyle Kuzma creates an exciting offense. Washington will also have other pieces such as Deni Avdija, Corey Kispert, and Daniel Gafford.
Indiana gets a nice, young piece in Hachimura. He averaged over 11 points per game this past season and is capable of more. Playing time wasn’t easy in a crowded Wizards frontcourt. He’ll certainly get plenty of time in Indiana and is more than capable of earning a starting role. Caldwell-Pope makes salaries work, but a rebuilding team like Indiana can trade him for more assets as he’ll attract contending teams.
Three Team Madness in this Malcolm Brogdon Trade
Indiana Pacers receive Coby White and Luke Kennard.
LA Clippers receive Malcolm Brogdon.
Chicago Bulls receive Marcus Morris.
The Clippers are ready to win now as they’ll be healthy next season. Reggie Jackson put in admirable efforts this past season, but the Clippers are better suited with Jackson off the bench and another starting point guard. Brogdon fits this mold perfectly with his play style. A starting five of Brogdon, Norman Powell, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac is a true contender.
Chicago came back down to earth after the All-Star break. A lot of this was due to injuries, but also a very apparent need for another big wing. Morris fits this description. He brings in tough defense and a very solid offensive game, so trading for him may unlock the Bulls’ potential.
Indiana gets younger here. White is another young guard with plenty of talent and potential. His fit next to Haliburton, possibly as starters, is an interesting formula for Rick Carlisle to tinker with. Buddy Hield has been good for the Pacers, but it’s likely they trade him too due to his age and contract. Indiana can then bring in another stellar shooter in Kennard.
Yet Another Three Team Blockbuster
Indiana Pacers receive Talen Horton-Tucker, Austin Reaves, and a Lakers second-round pick.
Los Angeles Lakers receive Malcolm Brogdon and Derrick Favors.
Oklahoma City Thunder receive Russell Westbrook and a future Lakers’ second-round pick.
Indiana looks to receive youth in this trade. Horton-Tucker has been on and off throughout his Lakers career, but overall he looks promising on both ends of the floor. Reaves is fresh off a surprisingly good rookie season, looking like one of the Lakers’ only bright spots this season. Both players would be welcomed in Indiana.
The Lakers finally get rid of Westbrook here. Whether that’s smart or not will be seen, but it’s clear he was the scapegoat for their poor season. Brogdon will be an excellent addition who may open up the team’s contending window again. Favors is a solid veteran addition as well.
Oklahoma City, flush with cap space, presents a homecoming for Westbrook for at least a season.
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