League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Indiana Pacers preview options for 2026 NBA Draft without first-round picks

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 5:02 PM

Last updated Jun 5, 2026

Indiana Pacers preview options for 2026 NBA Draft without first-round picks

Summary

The Indiana Pacers are preparing for the 2026 NBA Draft after finishing last season with the second-worst record in the league. A trade for Ivica Zubac cost them their top-five pick, leaving them without first-round selections. Injuries plagued the team last season, particularly to star Tyrese Haliburton, but most key players are returning. Although they lack first-round picks, the Pacers may explore acquiring a second-round pick to add depth. Notable draft targets include Otega Oweh and Richie Saunders, both of whom could fill the scoring void left by the traded Bennedict Mathurin.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Pacers finished with the second-worst record in the NBA last season.
•They traded their top-five pick to the Los Angeles Clippers for Ivica Zubac.
•Key player Tyrese Haliburton missed the season with a torn Achilles.
•Pacers may seek a second-round pick to strengthen their bench.
•Otega Oweh and Richie Saunders are potential draft targets.

Latest Updates

5:02 PMYahoo Sports — Indiana Pacers 2026 NBA Draft Preview

What they're saying

"
Last season was a rough one for the Indiana Pacers, as they finished with the second-worst record in the NBA. To make matters worse, courtesy of their trade for Ivica Zubac, they had to sacrifice their top-five pick to the Los Angeles Clippers. However, the future is still bright for the Pacers. Indiana’s woes came […] The post Indiana Pacers 2026 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on The Lead.
— Yahoo Sports

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