In a move that's sure to spark debate, the Indiana Pacers have traded their 2026 first-round pick to the Los Angeles Clippers in the Ivica Zubac-Bennedict Mathurin deal. While the pick is heavily protected-Indiana keeps it if it falls between 1-4 and 10-30-there's still a real possibility it ends up with the Clippers.
Currently, the Pacers sit at 15-40, holding the fourth-worst record in the NBA. According to Tankathon.com, they have a 48.1% chance of landing a top-four pick and just a 12.5% chance of securing the first overall pick.
Despite the uncertainty, Indiana's acquisition of Zubac as their future starting center offers a silver lining. The potential to draft a player like Darryn Peterson, Cam Boozer, or AJ Dybantsa could hinge on a coin flip, which is a nerve-wracking prospect for fans. However, even if they lose this year's pick, the Pacers' future remains promising.
Without a first-round pick, Indiana won't have the chance to pair Tyrese Haliburton with a transformative talent, but their long-term outlook is still bright. They're poised to be title contenders for years to come, with opportunities to prove their mettle as soon as next season.
This season has been challenging for the Pacers, with Haliburton's absence and Myles Turner's offseason departure taking a toll. Many hoped for a Play-In tournament appearance, but injuries and role adjustments have made that seem unlikely.
However, the Pacers are fresh off their first NBA Finals appearance in over two decades and have the pieces to return. Haliburton's expected return next season will be pivotal, as he's the engine of their offense.
Beyond Haliburton, the roster boasts impressive talent. Pascal Siakam has earned his fourth All-Star nod, Andrew Nembhard has excelled as the starting point guard, and Aaron Nesmith is set to benefit from Haliburton's playmaking.
Jarace Walker is finding his rhythm, Obi Toppin's return is on the horizon, and Ivica Zubac's defensive presence will be invaluable. With an elite coaching staff and front office, the Pacers are well-positioned in an Eastern Conference that's still wide open.
Outside of the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons, the Pacers have little to fear in the East. They've consistently outperformed the New York Knicks, and teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Orlando Magic don't pose significant threats.
Indiana's future is bright, and while adding a top prospect would be a bonus, it's not essential to their success. The Pacers are building something special, and the best is yet to come.