In the midst of trade rumors, Pacers big Myles Turner went on the record about wanting a bigger role.
But demanding a trade?
He’s not going that far.
James Boyd of the Indianapolis Star:
I asked Myles Turner about his comments to The Athletic and his fit alongside Domantas Sabonis.
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) December 11, 2021
“All that was me saying that I know my worth. I hold myself to a high regard and I expressed that.”
“I know we can work. I think this is the best we’ve played together.” #Pacers pic.twitter.com/KErUa4rUIf
I also asked Myles Turner why he expressed his frustrations publicly. @TEastNBA followed up and asked him what changes have been made to expand his role.
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) December 11, 2021
“Everybody had what they wanted to say (in the article).”
“I’ve gotten the ball in more favorable situations.” #Pacers pic.twitter.com/1YItB6EaZF
Turner:
Trade requests often exist in gray areas.
Would Turner welcome a trade that sends to him to a team that will give him a bigger role? It sure sounds like it. Would Turner prefer getting that bigger role in Indiana while somehow still playing with Domantas Sabonis? Maybe! Is Turner going as far as demanding a trade? Clearly not.
It’s worth noting the NBA tends to fine players who publicly request trades. So, Turner would be pushed to hide his true feelings if he wanted to go that far behind the scenes.
But I really appreciate Turner’s candor and perspective. He’s not hiding how he feels, including from the fans (whose interest in the league funds players’ salaries). Yet, he’s still playing hard for the Pacers. He’s not letting his desire for a bigger role interfere with his professionalism. He’s also savvy enough to realize all players want to shoot more, and they can’t all be satisfied.
Turner really sounds like someone who gets it.