The trade was made in exchange for their own 2026 first-round pick, which had previously been traded away. This transaction, is particularly noteworthy because it was executed while the Pacers are still competing in the NBA Finals, a rare occurrence in league history.

Indiana originally sent their 2026 first-rounder to Toronto as part of the Pascal Siakam deal. The pick later landed with the Pelicans after Toronto acquired Brandon Ingram from New Orleans earlier this year.

With this trade, the Pelicans now hold both the No. 7 and No. 23 picks in the upcoming NBA draft, giving them significant flexibility to either select two first-round prospects or package the picks for a potential move up the draft board or for a veteran addition.

Strategic implications for the Pacers

For Indiana, the primary motivation appears to be financial flexibility. By moving the No. 23 pick and Mojave King, the Pacers clear nearly $3.2 million in salary cap space for the 2025-26 season. This cap relief is crucial as the franchise prepares for a pivotal offseason, particularly with starting center Myles Turner set to become an unrestricted free agent.

The Pacers are projected to be about $20 million below the luxury tax threshold, giving them more room to negotiate a long-term extension with Turner and maintain roster continuity.

Additionally, reacquiring their own 2026 first-round pick ensures Indiana controls its own draft assets for the next several years, a valuable position for any team looking to sustain success and flexibility. The Pacers will now have their own first-round selections from 2026 through 2032.

What is next for the Pelicans?

The Pelicans, meanwhile, add another first-round pick to their arsenal, joining the No. 7 selection they already possess.

This gives New Orleans the option to draft two young prospects or use their draft capital to move up in the first round—especially with teams like the 76ers and Hornets reportedly open to trading their high lottery picks—or to pursue a trade for an established player to bolster their core of Zion Williamson, Dejounte Murray, C.J. McCollum, and Trey Murphy III.

Mojave King, included in the deal, is a 23-year-old guard who played last season in the G League and overseas. While he has yet to establish himself in the NBA, he provides additional depth and a potential developmental project for New Orleans.

This trade highlights both teams’ strategic priorities: Indiana’s focus on cap flexibility and asset management as they look to secure their future, and New Orleans’ desire to maximize draft capital for roster upgrades. With the NBA Draft approaching and the Pacers still fighting in the Finals, this move underscores the dynamic, year-round nature of NBA front office maneuvering.