The Indiana Pacers are reportedly looking for a replacement for injured star Paul George. Apparently, the Boston Celtics could provide them a serviceable swingman who could keep them relevant next season - his name is Jeff Green.
In a Sports Illustrated Fan Sided article by Boston Celtics blogger Kevin O'Connor, George's gruesome injury could force Larry Bird and the Pacers front office to pull off a trade that would give them Green.
"George already had surgery, and you bet Larry Bird and the Indiana Pacers' front office will soon work on how they can fill the 24-year-old star's shoes at small forward," according to O'Connor.
The NBA analyst believed the Pacers might send a package of Luis Scola, Chris Copeland and Ian Mahinmi along with draft considerations to the Celtics in exchange for Green, who averaged 16.9 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game last season.
"To speculate, Indiana could realistically offer a package revolving around their 2015 first round draft pick, Luis Scola's partially guaranteed contract, and salary filler like Chris Copeland or Ian Mahinmi."
"If Indiana sent their first rounder to Boston, it'd probably be somewhere between picks #15 and #22."
According to O'Connor, it would be a big blow for the Celtics to lose a versatile forward like Green. However, with his departure, Boston would get rid of his $8.7 million salary next season and allow young players like Evan Turner or James Young to gain more playing time and confidence as the season progresses.
"Losing Green would obviously hurt Boston this year, but it would open up more playing time for Evan Turner, Marcus Thornton, and Chris Johnson. If James Young develops more quickly than expected, he could even receive a chance at some point. Boston would also guarantee themselves more cap room in the summer of 2015, putting themselves in a strong position to make major moves," the analyst stated.
On the other hand, Green would provide Pacers with the kind of versatility George provides on both ends of the floor. The 6-foot-10 Green might be inconsistent at times, but his ability to knockdown long range jumpers and take the basketball to the rack would give the Pacers another offensive weapon after placing 24th in the league at 96.7 points per game.
After two postseason shortcomings, the Pacers' championship aspiration is suddenly in jeopardy following the injury to George and the departure of Lance Stephenson to Charlotte Hornets this summer.
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