Should the Chicago Bulls trade for the Indiana Pacers' Myles Turner?

The Bulls’ frontcourt does not inspire fear in the hearts of opponents. That's why the addition of Myles Turner might make sense for Chicago.

Myles Turner vs. Zach Lavine / © David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bulls are in a tough spot. Their best defensive player will not be playing for the foreseeable future, and their defense leaves a lot to be desired. And in the Eastern Conference where many teams added difference-making pieces this offseason, the Bulls are in danger of being left behind. 

What should they do? Trading for Myles Turner is one of the options.

Will the Pacers finally pull the trigger on Turner?

Turner has been in trade rumors for what seems like forever. In the final year of his contract for a Pacers team that's stocking up on young talent, it seems more likely than ever that Turner will be on the move. Indiana Pacers have been adamant that their center is staying put, but if the right offer comes along, they will have to strongly consider it. Can the Bulls be a suitable trade partner?

I keep refreshing my Twitter to check on ⁦@ShamsCharania⁩. At some point, maybe very soon, the Pacers will part ways with Myles Turner. It’s a little bit sad - he’s been a good guy and solid pro throughout - but it’s the right move

via @TheAthletic https://t.co/ulF3EEwXRQ

— Bob Kravitz (@bkravitz) September 27, 2022

The Bulls' biggest issue is their lack of defense in the frontcourt. The team ranked 25th in blocks last season with 4.1 blocks per game. Turner is an elite rim protector and would instantly improve the Bulls' defense. In addition to his defensive prowess, Turner is a very good offensive player. He averaged 12.9 points, 7.1 rebounds, and an impressive 2.8 blocks per game in an injury-plagued campaign last season.

Who will the Bulls give up?

The Pacers will be asking for a lot in return for Turner, but the Bulls have some pieces they can use to sweeten the deal. One player that the Pacers will be interested in is Nikola Vucevic. The 31-year-old center is coming off a season where he averaged a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds.

One vital fact about Vooch is that he, too, is on an expiring deal, making him an attractive trade piece for a Pacers team looking to shed salary. All these remain speculation for now, but with the season rapidly approaching, the Bulls will have to make a move soon if they want to improve their team.