In a recent NBA trade deal, the Indiana Pacers have reacquired their 2026 first-round pick from the New Orleans Pelicans. The trade, reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, involves the Pacers sending their No. 23 pick in this year’s draft along with the rights to guard Mojave King, who currently plays in New Zealand’s National Basketball League, to the Pelicans in exchange for the future first-rounder.
This move marks an interesting shift in strategy for both teams. For the Pacers, the trade allows them to free up cap space this offseason while also regaining control of their own first-round pick in 2026. By parting ways with their pick in this year’s draft, Indiana is positioning themselves for future flexibility and potential roster improvements down the line.
On the other hand, the Pelicans are now in possession of two first-round picks in the upcoming draft – the seventh and 23rd overall selections. This surplus of draft assets could enable New Orleans to make additional moves, such as packaging both picks to move up in the draft or potentially using them in trade negotiations to bolster their roster.
The inclusion of Mojave King in the trade adds an interesting player development aspect to the deal. King, a promising young talent who has experience playing in various leagues, could benefit from a change of scenery and find new opportunities for growth within the Pelicans’ organization.
Overall, this trade showcases the strategic maneuvering and forward-thinking approach that teams in the NBA often employ to position themselves for success in the long term. As the league continues to evolve and teams look to build competitive rosters, trades like these play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of professional basketball.
References:
1. Pacers reacquire 2026 first-round pick in trade with Pelicans: Report – [https://sports.yahoo.com/nba/breaking-news/article/pacers-reacquire-2026-first-round-pick-in-trade-with-pelicans-report-175856680.html]
2. Pelicans acquire a second 2025 first-round draft pick from the Pacers in exchange for a 2026 pick – [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/pelicans-acquire-second-2025-first-193702550.html]
3. Official: Pelicans acquire additional first-round pick in 2025 NBA draft from Pacers – [https://therookiewire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/rookie/2025/06/17/2025-nba-draft-pelicans-pacers-trade-details/84249927007/]
