Sources Confirm: Pacers Deal No. 23 Draft Pick To Pelicans – ESPN Report

David

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Post on Jun 19, 2025

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Sources Confirm: Pacers Trade No. 23 Draft Pick to Pelicans – ESPN Report Shakes Up NBA Draft

The NBA draft landscape shifted dramatically today with news breaking from ESPN that the Indiana Pacers have traded their No. 23 overall pick to the New Orleans Pelicans. Multiple sources have confirmed the trade, sending shockwaves through the league and leaving fans speculating about the Pelicans' next move. This unexpected deal adds a significant layer of intrigue to an already electrifying draft night.

What We Know:

• The Trade: The Indiana Pacers have relinquished their No. 23 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft to the New Orleans Pelicans. The specific details of the trade, including any players or future draft picks involved, haven't yet been officially released. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski was the first to report the news, citing multiple unnamed league sources.

• Pelicans' Potential Targets: With the addition of the No. 23 pick, the Pelicans now possess more draft capital, potentially opening up avenues for trades or adding a promising prospect to their already impressive roster. Analysts are speculating about a variety of potential targets at this pick, ranging from wing players to big men, depending on the Pelicans' specific needs and draft board strategy. Their recent successes and Zion Williamson's presence likely shape their draft priorities.

• Pacers' Strategy: The Pacers' decision to trade their pick raises questions about their long-term strategy. Are they prioritizing cap space for future free agency acquisitions? Or are they focusing on developing their existing young core? The team's front office will likely provide further clarification in the coming days. This move certainly suggests a shift in their draft night plans.

Analyzing the Implications:

This trade significantly impacts the projected draft order and adds another layer of unpredictability to the already exciting draft night. The move by the Pacers could be viewed as a calculated risk, sacrificing a potential contributor for flexibility in the future. The Pelicans, meanwhile, have significantly enhanced their draft night options.

What to Watch For:

• Official Confirmation: The NBA is expected to officially announce the trade details soon, clarifying any additional assets exchanged.
• Pelicans' Draft Strategy: The Pelicans’ selection at No. 23 will provide valuable insight into their plans for the upcoming season. Will they draft a player to contribute immediately, or select someone with long-term potential?
• Pacers' Future Moves: The Pacers’ decision might foreshadow further trades or free agency signings as they continue to reshape their roster.

The NBA draft is always full of surprises, and this trade is a prime example. This unexpected move underscores the fluid nature of the NBA landscape and the ever-evolving strategies employed by teams looking to build contenders. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds. We'll be covering all the latest developments throughout the draft. [Link to Pacers News Section] [Link to Pelicans News Section]

Keywords: NBA Draft, Pacers, Pelicans, Trade, No. 23 Pick, NBA Draft 2024, Adrian Wojnarowski, ESPN, NBA News, Basketball News, Draft Rumors, NBA Draft Trades, Zion Williamson, Indiana Pacers, New Orleans Pelicans.