Sixers: 3 trades to explore with potentially rebuilding Pacers

It would seem the Pacers, who are 10-16 and currently in 13th place, are about to blow it up. According to Shams Charania, Indiana is “moving toward a substantial rebuild,” which could place several valuable contributors on the trade market.

Naturally, the Sixers should express interest. Philadelphia is aiming for a championship this season, and while the roster is strong in its current state, there are improvements to be made. The Pacers have not only expressed interest in Ben Simmons in the past, but also harbor a wealth of quality reserves and complementary talents who could furnish the Sixers’ supporting cast.

Here are three trades worthy of consideration from both sides.

3 trades to explore between Sixers and Pacers: T.J. Warren

The Sixers would have to think long and hard about this one. Danny Green has his share of vocal detractors, but he has been quite good this season and remains important to what the Sixers do on both sides of the ball. That said, he’s also 34 years old and very clearly on the decline.

For Indiana, it’s hard to imagine T.J. Warren fielding significant value in the trade market. The Sixers could be tempted to give up a first-round pick, but Warren only played four games last season and has been in the throes of injury ever since. He was masterful in the Pacers’ Bubble run, but that was a long time ago in basketball years.

Warren isn’t expected to return until January or later, and there’s no telling how he’ll look upon his return. That said, in his last healthy season, the 28-year-old averaged 19.8 points on .536/.403/.819 shooting splits. He could give the Sixers’ offense a significant boost if he does get back to full strength.

The risk inherent in this trade makes it difficult to offer a full endorsement, but Daryl Morey is a risk-taker at heart and the Sixers have ground to make up between themselves and the East’s upper echelon contenders. Warren could push them closer with elite 3-point shooting, a real isolation threat late in games, and competent wing defense. The Sixers would also have to deal with his upcoming free agency.