The Pacers, led by Kevin Pritchard, chose to trade for Ivica Zubac to remain competitive after missing out on a top lottery pick, with owner Mr. Simon watching the lottery results and feeling the stress of the high-stakes night.
Indiana Pacers president Kevin Pritchard acknowledged a high-risk February trade that sent the 2026 first-round pick to the Los Angeles Clippers with a condition; the pick landed at No. 5, giving the Clippers the selection. Pritchard apologized to fans for the gamble. The deal also sent Ivica Zubac and Kobe Brown to Indiana for Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson and multiple picks; Zubac was limited by injuries this season. The Pacers, one of the league’s worst teams, aim to rebound next season with a core around Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam and Andrew Nembhard, while adding Zubac to the mix; Pritchard says he’s willing to swing again to chase a title.
Despite not winning the NBA Draft Lottery, Indiana Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard is pleased with the team's seventh overall pick and the potential to acquire a valuable second-round pick. Pritchard believes the draft has a deep talent pool and is focused on adding defensive players to the team. The Pacers haven't picked in the top four since 1988, but Pritchard remains optimistic about the team's young and talented core.