Golden State Warriors Rumors: Myles Turner reported as trade target for defending champions

Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers will be among the hottest names on the trade market ahead of the deadline. One of the teams linked to Turner is the Golden State Warriors. The latest rumors suggest that the defending champions should target the defensive big man.

Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report explored the possible trades the Warriors could make to improve their roster. Turner has been on the rumor mill for the last two years, so it's not surprising to see him in it again this season. He's among the best shot blocking centers in the league at the moment.

Turner is also a capable shooter, which could make him a great fit on offense with Steph Curry and the Warriors. His addition could also allow Draymond Green to focus on defending the perimeter, with Turner protecting the paint.

However, Buckley also pointed out the Indiana Pacers' surprising start to the season. The Pacers are 13-12 and are among the best teams in the Eastern Conference. It's possible for Indiana to keep Myles Turner and sign him to a new contract in the offseason.

Things, though, could change in the next two months, especially with a once-in-a-generation prospect in Victor Wembanyama on the horizon. The Pacers could benefit from trading some of their veterans in exchange for young players and future picks.

The Golden State Warriors have a handful of young prospects, including James Wiseman, Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody. The only problem for the Warriors if they pursue Turner is that there could be several teams interested in acquiring him.

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LA Lakers, LA Clippers among interested teams in Myles Turner

Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers

The LA Lakers were the most linked team with Myles Turner since the offseason. However, the Lakers are not currently willing to part ways with their first-round picks in 2027 and 2029. Things might change as the February 9 deadline approaches, though.

Turner even urged the Lakers to trade for him in an appearance on "The Woj Pod" with Adrian Wojanarowski.

"If I'm the Lakers, I take a very hard look at this with the position that you're in," Turner said. "I know what I can provide a team, my leadership, my shot-blocking, my three-point ability, and just my ability to make plays out there on the floor. And I'd take a very long look at it, but as far as pulling the trigger, I get paid to shoot, not to make these calls, so I couldn't answer that."

A team that could rival the Lakers for Turner are the LA Clippers. Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report said last month that the Clippers have had internal discussions about Turner.

The Clippers have an excess of wing players, and owner Steve Ballmer laughs at paying luxury taxes. Pincus also pointed out that Ballmer is willing to sign Turner to an extension in the summer if they acquire him.

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