With the Indiana Pacers heading into a transitional season following the devastating loss of All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton and franchise cornerstone Myles Turner, expectations are understandably tempered for the 2025–26 campaign. Rather than pushing for immediate contention, Indiana appears poised to use this upcoming season as a developmental period — evaluating which young talents fit into their long-term vision and who might be better suited elsewhere.
Most analysts agree that it would be unwise for the Pacers to make any impulsive trades during this limbo period. As Bleacher Report’s Connor Thomas put it, “If I am the Pacers, I’m not really trying to switch things up right now. I’m kind of just trying to bide my time until Hali comes back next season.” The sentiment reflects a cautious approach — one focused on sustainability rather than short-term gain.
However, even with that strategy in mind, there’s a growing curiosity around whether Indiana could explore smart, future-focused trades that align with Haliburton’s eventual return. One name that’s emerged in recent speculation is guard Andrew Nembhard.
Nembhard, whose new three-year, $56 million extension begins next season, has shown considerable promise but could become expendable if the Pacers choose to retool their backcourt when Haliburton is healthy again. While Indiana might be hesitant to move him, his trade value is substantial, especially to teams looking for a young, cost-controlled lead guard.
A mock trade scenario floated by Connor Thomas suggests an intriguing possibility: a deal between the Indiana Pacers and Central Division rival Cleveland Cavaliers. The proposed deal would send Nembhard and forward Jarace Walker to Cleveland in exchange for veteran center Jarrett Allen and young wing Jaylon Tyson.
At first glance, this trade might raise eyebrows — especially since it’s a rare example of two division rivals considering a significant player exchange. But upon closer inspection, it could be a mutually beneficial deal that addresses positional needs for both teams.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for the Pacers
Jarrett Allen would give the Pacers a true interior anchor to replace the departed Myles Turner. Allen, an All-Star-caliber rim protector with excellent rebounding skills, would thrive in Indiana’s system, especially when paired with Haliburton in pick-and-roll situations once the point guard returns.
Jaylon Tyson, meanwhile, is a young wing who has shown flashes of offensive creativity and two-way potential but hasn’t found a consistent role with the Cavaliers. A change of scenery in Indiana, where developmental minutes will be plentiful, could unlock his full potential.
This trade also allows the Pacers to start forming a core built around Haliburton, Allen, Bennedict Mathurin, Pascal Siakam, and Aaron Nesmith — a group that blends youth, athleticism, and versatility. While Indiana would be sacrificing some young assets, the return would offer more lineup clarity and a more well-rounded roster once Haliburton is healthy.
Cleveland’s Side of the Deal
From Cleveland’s perspective, this trade would mark the beginning of a retooling process. The Cavaliers, who finished last season as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, are rumored to be open to moving on from either Darius Garland or Donovan Mitchell to reshape their backcourt dynamic. Acquiring Nembhard could be the first step toward such a shift.
Nembhard would slot into a starting role, offering a steadier and more pass-first option than Garland. Meanwhile, Jarace Walker adds physicality and upside to the Cavaliers’ forward rotation. Though still developing, Walker has shown the ability to defend multiple positions and contribute as a rebounder and slasher — assets the Cavs would gladly welcome.
Final Thoughts
While this trade remains purely hypothetical, it does reflect the kind of forward-thinking move that could benefit both organizations. For Indiana, the focus is clearly on the long game — preparing a competitive and cohesive roster for the 2026–27 season and beyond, once Haliburton is back at full strength. Adding proven talent like Jarrett Allen and a high-upside prospect like Jaylon Tyson would accelerate that timeline without compromising the future.
For Cleveland, the deal signals a willingness to pivot while still remaining competitive. Swapping Allen for a guard like Nembhard and a prospect like Walker could give them greater flexibility in reshaping their roster around Mitchell or whoever remains from their current core.
As the 2025–26 season unfolds, and with both franchises facing pivotal decisions, a mock trade like this might not be far from becoming a real conversation — especially if both teams feel the need to pivot while keeping an eye on long-term success.