Pacers, Pelicans Swap Picks Ahead of NBA Draft

The Indiana Pacers have traded the No. 23 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and the rights to guard Mojave King to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for their own 2026 first-round pick. This deal gives the Pelicans two first-round selections—Nos. 7 and 23—for the 2025 draft, increasing their flexibility to draft talent or pursue trades for higher picks, with prospects like Ace Bailey reportedly on their radar. Indiana restores future draft flexibility, clears about $3.2 million in salary cap space, and ensures compliance with the Stepien Rule, which governs the trading of consecutive first-round picks. The Pacers are also positioning themselves for potential contract negotiations with free agent Myles Turner. Mojave King, a 23-year-old guard with international and G League experience, has yet to appear in an NBA game. The trade underscores both teams' roster strategies ahead of the NBA Draft scheduled for June 25-26.