Indiana Pacers acquire Braden Smith from Chicago Bulls in draft trade
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 1:35 PM
Last updated Jun 25, 2026
The Indiana Pacers traded a 2025 second-round pick and future draft swaps to the Chicago Bulls for Braden Smith, a notable player from Purdue. Despite skepticism on the viability of second-round picks, Smith’s skill as the NCAA's all-time assists leader draws interest. Analysts provided mixed reviews of the trade, with some highlighting Smith's potential as a backup point guard and the benefits of mentorship from veteran players. Smith is expected to face competition for minutes in a crowded Pacers backcourt during the upcoming season.
- •Indiana trades for Braden Smith on June 25, 2026.
- •Smith is the NCAA's all-time assists leader.
- •The trade included a 2025 second-round pick and future swaps.
- •Analysts rated the Pacers' trade with grades ranging from C+ to B+.
- •Smith may compete for minutes behind T.J. McConnell.
- 1:35 PMYahoo Sports — Indiana Pacers trade for Braden Smith gets varied 2026 NBA Draft grades
"Second-round picks rarely become starters, but Braden Smith can learn from T.J. McConnell, an Indiana Pacers backup point guard.
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