The Indiana Pacers, currently 2-3 in the NBA Finals, are looking ahead to next season after finalizing a trade with the New Orleans Pelicans. In this deal, the Pacers are sending the 23rd pick of this year’s draft along with rights to Mojave King in exchange for their own 2026 NBA Draft pick. The Pelicans previously acquired this 2026 pick as part of the Brandon Ingram trade. Having only 11 players under contract, the Pacers aim to maximize their roster flexibility for next season.

Retaining key players like Myles Turner and possibly Thomas Bryant will be crucial as they navigate this offseason. The Pacers need to avoid limiting their options by committing to a rookie. With a promising 2026 draft class on the horizon, the Pacers are strategically positioning themselves to enhance their roster either through trades or free agency. Their focus is on balancing the present with future potential while maintaining competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.