Markieff Morris is still the top name in the trade rumors because of his demand.
More and more teams are starting to consider the possibility of making a play for the disgruntled forward despite the Phoenix Suns' declaration that they would not give in.
The Suns may try to increase his trade value by holding on until the season starts but if the situation escalates, they may be forced to panic. Thus, it could be best that they already try to consider offers.
The Indiana Pacers have a legitimate need at the frontline. Their starting center (Roy Hibbert) and power forward (David West) who were both former All-Stars left the team through trade and free agency respectively.
The Pacers may need to adopt "small-ball" and play Paul George at the "four" spot in stretches. Adding Markieff Morris could keep those stretches to a minimum as Indy Cornrows suggested.
"Making a move for the better of the Morris twins makes almost too much sense," IC says. "The Eastern Conference is wide open after the Cleveland Cavaliers. Adding another quality piece would accelerate the Pacers rebuild, and here's the best part: the price for Morris has never been lower."
But what could the Pacers offer?
"The Pacers don't have many trade assets, but I would surmise that a lottery-protected future first rounder, Joseph Young, and Chase Budinger might be enough," IC stated. "Budinger is only on the books for the upcoming season, and if anyone can solve his injury woes, its the Phoenix Suns training staff. Young is an intriguing young talent, and the Suns love point guards."
While other teams hesitate, the Pacers could place the Suns out of their misery, as Grantland's Zach Lowe states that Keef is worth the risk.
"Morris could transform himself into a really good player for the modern, pace-and-space, switch-everything NBA and he's just starting a four-year, $32 million contract," Lowe wrote. "In a league where contracts are short and starters will soon be earning almost $15 million on average, that deal is like gold bullion."