Grade the Trade: Mavericks overpay for elite shot blocker in potential disaster

Why would the Indiana Pacers trade Myles Turner to the Dallas Mavericks?

Turner is one of the league’s premier shot-blockers, but it has not translated to winning as the Pacers have missed the playoffs for three straight years. Indiana reached the postseason in each of his first five years in the NBA, but they were bounced in the first round every time.

Turner has been on the trade block for years, but the Pacers have not found a deal. He signed a two-year extension last season worth $40.9 million, which makes him an unrestricted free agent in 2025. Now is the time for Indiana to sell at max value. He is under contract for two years and is healthy.

That has been Turner’s biggest drawback. Over the last four seasons, the 6’11 big man has played in 213 games, and he played in more than 65 games in a season just twice in his eight years in the NBA.

Beyond that, they are getting a significant haul here. Maxi Kleber would instantly slot into their rotation as a stretch five that can protect the rim and guard on the perimeter when healthy. JaVale McGee can be their backup center, and they get a second top-ten selection to continue building out their young roster. That is none to sneeze at for a player that has struggled to stay healthy.

Why would the Mavs make this move?