Reports: Myles Turner is gaining interest from LA Clippers as the trade deadline closes in
Indiana Pacers big man Myles Turner has been a popular name in trade rumors. This time, it appears as if the LA Clippers have their eyes on the talented center.
Turner has been one of the NBA's most productive centers, with the potential to be a dominant force on defense. After numerous seasons of finding his name in trade talks, Turner could finally be on the move this year.
One of the reasons why is Turner's current situation. With an Indiana Pacers team that is set to rebuild, Turner has become a valuable trade piece. He's also in the last year of his contract. The 26-year-old center is currently making $17.5 million and will be a free agent at the end of the 2022-23 season.
Turner has impressed yet again this season. He's averaging 17.9 points, 8.7 rebounds and 3.1 blocks per game. According to Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus, the LA Clippers have discussed making a move for the Pacers center.
The Clippers have discussed targeting Myles Turner, per @EricPincus https://t.co/wfJ8YrnpEi
Could Indiana Pacers big man Myles Turner be on the move?
The recent report connecting Myles Turner to the LA Clippers is a fascinating one. The Clippers are expected to make some noise in the Western Conference this season. With Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, the Clippers have the talent to make a serious push.
Turner would be a sensational addition to a tough Clippers team. The NBA's trade deadline won't take place until Feb. 9. That means that the Clippers can wait to see if they need to make a move as the deadline approaches.
Although Turner would become a free agent at the end of the season, he would give the Clippers a much-needed boost. When healthy, Turner has been one of the league's best shot-blocking centers.
Myles Turner after getting his 1,000th career block: "I think I'm the best shot-blocker in the world, and I'm going to stay with that confidence." #Pacers @PacersJJ https://t.co/t7U1Osdm4B
In his last three seasons, Myles Turner has averaged 13.1 ppg, 6.9 rpg and 3.1 bpb. Turner also has the ability to step out and stretch the floor from 3-point range.
Los Angeles has the depth to make a charge in the West. Adding a big man like Turner would only make them that much more dangerous, especially when the playoffs come around. After making the Western Conference finals in 2021, they missed the playoffs last season as superstars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George dealt with injuries all season.
The Clippers (8-6) have been without Leonard, who is recovering from knee soreness. Los Angeles is set to take on the Dallas Mavericks (7-5) on Tuesday night before starting a three-game road trip.