Trade Grade: Indiana Pacers trade Torrey Craig to the Phoenix Suns

The NBA Trade Deadline was on February 10th, 2022 and I expected many transactions to occur especially trade. Well another transaction occurred during the deadline between the Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns involving Torrey Craig.

Indiana Pacers Acquire: PF/C Jalen Smith, and 2022 Second round pick (Phoenix Suns)
Phoenix Suns Acquire: SF Torrey Craig and Cash

Indiana Pacers Side

The Pacers proved one thing during the trade deadline. They are blowing it up and are starting their rebuild. Moves like this are why as they traded Torrey Craig who was clearly not going to be a part of the future. So why not trade him for a younger player and gain more draft capital at the same time. Jalen Smith has potential and shines when he is creating screens. He could be something with a change of scenery as Jalen Smith did not do much or played a lot unless either Ayton or McGee are either injured or resting. Plus like I said earlier it never hurts for a rebuilding team to increase the amount of draft capital to use.

Phoenix Suns Side

He’s Back. Torrey Craig is back with the Phoenix Suns as he was a part of the team that reached the NBA Finals last season. So he should fit well with the lockeroom which is good. This is a move to bolster the defense as that is where Torrey Craig is useful in plus. But he could be on a decline. Plus the Suns get cash in this deal as well. Worse for worse they get some more money coming there way if Torrey Craig does not do well in his secound tenure with the team

Grades for Torrey Craig Trade
Indiana Pacers: B+
Phoenix Suns: B

A win-win trade for both teams. I have to give the slight edge to the Pacers in this deal as they are aiming for the future acquiring Jalen Smith and they got a draft pick as well. But the Phoenix Suns get defensive help through a familiar player in Torrey Craig. Plus the Suns get money in the deal as well. Great move by both teams here.