Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner has been linked to many teams throughout the season due to his refusal to extend his contract with the team. One of the franchises that have been a heavily rumored trade destination is the Los Angeles Lakers. The need for adding size to their roster has seen them get linked to multiple centers over the past few months. However, Turner’s expiring contract forced him into trade discussions. But the latest update on the 6’11 giant will leave Lakers fans upset.

As the trade deadline approaches, pressure on the Lakers’ front office to improve the roster has increased. Moreover, the Lakers have been looking for a much-needed inside presence and Turner fits the bill perfectly. However, the Pacers have made a final decision with Turner now.

Turner has agreed to a two-year, $60 million contract extension that includes an additional $17.1 million renegotiation on his 2022-23 salary, Adrian Wojnarowski reported. The deal will include the largest renegotiation bump in NBA history worth $17.1 million. This deal ends any speculation of a trade deadline deal. On top of that, this also eliminates one of the top free-agent centers in the summer.

Fans react to the Pacers extending Myles Turner’s contract

Turner’s extension with the Pacers surprised many NBA fans. Here are some of the best reactions on Twitter after the news broke out.

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In the 2022-23 season, Turner has been averaging 17.5 points, and 7.9 rebounds to go along with 2.4 blocks per game. He is one of the elite defending big men in the league. Furthermore, his shooting abilities from outside the arc make him a very coveted piece for any team in the league.

Los Angeles Lakers will have to look elsewhere

However, with the trade deadline approaching, Lakers fans will be hoping Turner’s extension doesn’t affect their strategy. They have been in the market for a big man who can improve their defense and stretch the floor on offense. Anthony Davis‘ consistent injury problems have also increased the Lakers’ need for more inside presence.

LeBron James has helped keep the Lakers in Playoff contention amid Davis’ long absence. Nevertheless, with Davis’ return, the Lakers will be hoping to build momentum and move up the standings. While they currently occupy the 13th spot in the standing, they only sit 2.5 games back of the 7th-seeded Golden State Warriors and just 1.5 games behind the Utah Jazz in the 10th and final Play-In spot.

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While it has been a frustrating season for the Lakers, fans’ morale was boosted after the franchise acquired Rui Hachimura. The 6’8 forward filled one of the Lakers’ biggest needs, a wing who can create his own shots and defend. The Lakers’ search for a big man probably won’t be affected despite Turner’s extension. It will be interesting to see if they make any more moves before the trade deadline.