Grade the Trade: Pacers Get Thomas Bryant

It's highly unlikely that Bryant will start for the Pacers. Even though Myles Turner is not an elite rebounder, the NBA has moved long past the era of playing two traditional big men, with the exception of the Cleveland Cavaliers, who start both Evan Mobely and Jarrett Allen. 

However, the Pacers' bench ranks 23rd in blocks, so adding a center off the bench should be able to give the second unit some relief.

On top of that, Obi Toppin, who excelled on the perimeter last year, has had to play occasional center minutes in the absence of Wiseman and Jackson. With Bryant holding things down in the second unit, the Pacers should be able to get the most out of Toppin.

This year, Bryant is averaging only 4.1 points and 3.2 rebounds, but during his stint with the Washington Wizards, where he received more minutes, he posted 11 points and 6.2 rebounds per night. On top of that, he is a capable defender and should help elevate the Pacers' 25th ranked defense.

While a second-round pick swap is practically nothing in the NBA, one has to wonder if any better centers would be available at that price. Had Mason Plumlee or Charles Bassey been available at the same price, the Pacers could have pursued them instead, but that seems highly unlikely, so All Pacers is giving the trade a solid A-.