Indiana Pacers big man Myles Turner is a name who has been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers time and time again. Those connections have been made almost as often as the sun comes every morning. Should the Lakers decide to make a serious push for Turner before the NBA Trade Deadline on Feb. 6, it does not appear they will be alone in the race for the two-way star.
The defensive anchor has flown under the radar as someone playing in the final year of his contract during the 2024-25 NBA season. Turner is set to become an unrestricted free agent during the upcoming offseason. While there has not been any strong indicators suggesting that Turner wants out of Indiana, there is also no long-term commitment from the two sides.
With the way general managers tend to operate nowadays, the risk of losing a talented player for nothing in the offseason will often push a trade into fruition before that day can come. Leading up to Christmas, NBA insider Brett Siegel suggested the Pacers have been willing to hear offers on the big man. Should the Lakers want to enter the Turner sweepstakes, they will not be alone in their pursuits.
Warriors pose threat to Lakers in the competition for Turner's services
Los Angeles will not have to look too far for rivals in a potential bidding war for the two-time blocks champion. The Golden State Warriors will reportedly be a team in the hunt for the services of Turner, according to insider Jake Fischer.
News: The Warriors are showing interest in Pacers center Myles Turner, per @JakeLFischer. pic.twitter.com/MDv7ehxKKY
— The Indy Pacer (@TheIndyPacer) January 16, 2025
This should hardly come as a surprise. For those paying attention, the Warriors have been linked to a plethora of potential upgrades in the frontcourt after their rumored pursuit of Jimmy Butler cooled down.
Turner would be a unique addition for the Lakers. His $19.9 million cap hit this season makes him an easy contract to acquire for Rob Pelinka and the front office. Turner would also provide a much-needed boost to a razor-thin backcourt behind Anthony Davis.
The combination of shooting, finishing, and defensive ability the Pacers big man provides is a skill set that would be welcomed on any team in the NBA. LeBron James would certainly have no issues running pick-and-roll actions with Turner. Davis would also receive the opportunity to shift back to the four, allowing the Lakers superstar more opportunity to roam defensively.
If the Lakers are looking for one more strong boost to the roster before the trade deadline, Turner would certainly fit the bill. However, if available, one can expect there to be a healthy trade market for the versatile big.