Going back to last summer, Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner has been repeatedly linked to the Los Angeles Lakers as a potential trade target.
It has been for good reason, as Turner is a very potent 3-point shooter, as well as an elite shot-blocker. It has been suggested by many fans and pundits that Turner could also help L.A. by allowing Anthony Davis to play the 4, which is his most natural position, especially on the defensive end.
A package of Turner and sharpshooter Buddy Hield was reportedly on the table for the Lakers and available for Russell Westbrook and two future first-round draft picks, but apparently general manager Rob Pelinka felt the offer wouldn’t have improved them enough.
But now, Turner won’t be an option for the Lakers anymore, as he has agreed to a contract extension to stay in Indiana.
Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner has agreed on a two-year, $60M contract extension that includes an additional $17.1M renegotiation on his 2022-2023 salary, his agent Austin Brown of CAA Sports tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/17nSSwN14z
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 28, 2023
It is not known with absolute certitude if the Lakers would prefer to go after another center, such as the Orlando Magic’s Mo Bamba, a wing or a ball-handling guard prior to the Feb. 9 trade deadline, although Brian Windhorst reported they may go for a backcourt addition.
It is also possible that Pelinka may simply decide to stand pat and instead make some sort of move this offseason.
