The Indiana Pacers finished the 2021-22 NBA season 25-57 after trading away All-Star center Domantas Sabonis midseason. Despite the trade, the Pacers may be closer to playoff contention than many assume. A step toward a return to the postseason could involve trading for a near All-Star talent in Jerami Grant.
Jerami Grant has been a near-All-Star level player since joining the Detroit Pistons, despite the team’s struggles. Grant finished second in Most Improved Player voting in the 2021 season after scoring 22.3 points per game, almost 10 higher than his previous career-high.
The Pistons have recently entered the ranks of the NBA’s tanking franchises. Making a youth movement, they recently acquired star rookie Cade Cunningham first in the 2021 Draft. As the Detroit Pistons look to add more lottery talent this offseason, they may be prepared to move on from Grant. Grant is a little older than their other core players and doesn’t quite fit the timeline.
Trading for Grant could be the best move for Indiana to improve ahead of next season. This offseason’s free agency class is a bit more lackluster than in years past. Indiana has the assets to make a move in the trade market, where they could find better talent.
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Grant would fill a hole in the Indiana roster, which last year featured 12 different guards throughout the season but only four forwards. One of the four, TJ Warren, did not suit up for the team all season and is a free agent this offseason as well.
Grant’s versatile scoring talent, in conjunction with his size and defensive skill, makes him a desirable target for any team looking to improve. Pairing Grant with center Myles Turner, the Indiana Pacers could wind up with one of the NBA’s most intimidating defenses.
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Jerami Grant could be a great offensive fit in Indiana. Grant has the potential to score over 20 points per game but struggled as the primary ball-handler in Detroit. With point guard Tyrese Halliburton running the show in Indiana, Grant will fit in nicely as a complementary offensive piece.
