The Indiana Pacers executed one of the most talked-about moves of the season on Wednesday by acquiring Pascal Siakam from Toronto in exchange for Bruce Brown, Jordan Nora and three first-round draft picks.
Despite the hypothetical nature of sports betting, Siakam wasn't the first option Indiana management was considering in order to give its project a spin. According to the journalist espnZach Lowe, The Pacers asked the Utah Jazz about Lauri Markkanen's availability before entering into talks with the Canadian organization.
A month ago it was leaked that the Finland international could leave the Salt Lake City franchise in exchange for five first-round picks or similar items. However, the outstanding performance shown by the team since then has earned them the title non-convertible.
Thus, the Jazz showed no interest in the Pacers' request, which threw itself at Siakam after receiving a rejection from Utah. Markkanen has become an All-Star since joining the Jazz, and according to several reports, he will only leave the team for a very high offer. Markkanen is under contract with the club until the 2024-25 season, and both parties, franchise owner and player, have already shared their desire to extend this association.
(Cover photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)