The Indiana Pacers made a strategic move during the NBA Finals, trading the No. 23 pick and the rights to Mojave King to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for the rights to their own 2026 first-round pick. This trade allows the Pacers to regain control of their future picks and create additional cap space, as they aim to re-sign Myles Turner. The Pelicans now possess the No. 7 and No. 23 picks, giving them flexibility to trade up or enhance their roster.

This clever transaction not only alleviates immediate financial pressure for Indiana but also positions the franchise to potentially trade multiple first-round picks in the upcoming offseason. Having nearly $20 million below the luxury tax line, the Pacers are in a strong position to maintain competitiveness while managing their finances efficiently.