Should Pacers Trade for Key Forward?

Brooklyn's front office failed to capitalize on Dennis Schroder and Dorian Finney-Smith, as the organization initially expected first-round picks back for such players. 

However, the Nets can make amends for past trades by obtaining a first-round pick and more for the much-improved Cameron Johnson.

Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley proposed a mock trade that would send Nets' Johnson to the Pacers for Obi Toppin, Aaron Nesmith, a 2028 first-round pick (top-five protected), and a 2030 first-round pick swap.

Johnson is averaging a career-high 19 points and 41 percent mark from 3. The Pacers would receive the best player in the trade at a reasonable price, and his $65.5 million contract ends in his year-30 season. 

The Pacers' starting lineup would receive another weapon for their offense, but their defense would suffer without Nesmith. 

Furthermore, although Johnson is the best player in the trade, the Pacers need depth, as injuries nearly ruined their season. Losing Obi Toppin for a player who could lessen their defensive production potentially leads to a slip in the Eastern Conference standings. 

The trade could benefit the Pacers, but perhaps adding a third team would make their fan base sweat less.