The Indiana Pacers stunned the Los Angeles Lakers in their own home yesterday, winning 111-104 to snap a four-game losing streak. The victory may not jumpstart the Pacers into playoff contention but it is an enjoyable sight for a team that could get dismantled at any moment.
Myles Turner and Caris LeVert, who recorded 30 points and 8 rebounds in the win, have been the most frequent names in trade rumors. Domantas Sabonis, who posted 20 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists against Los Angeles, has been mentioned, as well.
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle said that Sabonis suffered a left ankle sprain after he went up for an offensive rebound. Sabonis will most likely join Turner on the injury list, as he is also dealing with a foot injury.
If both Sabonis and Turner remain out for the next few weeks, they may have already played their last game as teammates. It may be for the best for the Pacers to move on from one of the big men and reshape the roster, as their chances at making the playoffs are not very good.
Turner has been pursued by several teams as the February 10 trade deadline approaches. LeVert may be the most likely Pacer to be traded now but Sabonis could still garner plenty of interest, too. The two-time All-Star can score soundly on the interior while being a secondary facilitator.
Sabonis may not have already played his final game for Indiana, but depending on his timetable to return, the roster around him could look vastly different.