The buzz around the 2026 NBA Draft is reaching fever pitch as the Draft Lottery looms on May 10. The Indiana Pacers are making waves with their draft strategies, and fans are eagerly eyeing a trio of standout prospects: Darryn Peterson from Kansas, AJ Dybansta from BYU, and Cam Boozer from Duke. While many predict Peterson or Dybansta could go first, there’s a growing chatter that the Pacers might have their sights set on Boozer.
Cam Boozer has been turning heads, especially after a standout performance against the Siena Saints, where he logged 22 points, 13 rebounds, and three assists in 38 minutes, leading Duke to a 71-65 victory. His potential fit alongside Pascal Siakam and the recently acquired Ivica Zubac makes him an intriguing option for Indiana, even if they land the top pick.
The Pacers’ season has been rocky, with Tyrese Haliburton sidelined due to an ACL tear, leaving them struggling at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Adding to their woes, center Ivica Zubac suffered a fractured rib after a collision with Portland’s Donovan Clingan, ending his season prematurely. This setback is a tough blow for Zubac, who had only recently returned from an ankle injury and played just five games with Indiana.
As the Pacers look towards the future, the draft offers a beacon of hope. The potential addition of a player like Boozer could be a game-changer, providing the spark they need to climb back into contention. For now, Indiana fans are holding their breath, eagerly awaiting the lottery results and dreaming of a brighter tomorrow.