Hopefully I'll write a post-mortem on the 2025 season soon, but the way it ended has left me feeling a bit hungover.

In a hot stove league like the NBA, there's no rest for the weary, however. Somehow, the first round of the Draft starts in less than an hour. While the Pacers don't have a first round pick (for the second year in a row, I might add), the injection of fresh talent is always one of the highlights on the calendar.

Unlike most years, the Pacers did not host many pre-draft workouts due to their Finals run – but that doesn't mean they haven't been doing their due diligence. According to Tony East, they've been working out players in gyms across the country.

Preparations for this NBA Draft were unlike past years for the Pacers. Typically, the team announces and hosts several pre-draft workouts at their practice facility in the weeks leading up to the draft. But this year, with the team playing through June 22, that space was reserved for NBA Finals preparations. As a result, some workouts were held off-site in Indianapolis or in cities the team visited during the playoffs.

The front office did everything they could to be opportunistic and still get a look at various prospects. They want to be as prepared as possible every year, and this was no exception even with a Finals run mixed in. Pacers decision makers made the most of the situation.

While no specific players were announced for workouts, various posts on social media from agencies and players confirms that Iowa guard Drew Thelwell, East Carolina guard RJ Felton, and Liberty guard Taelon Peter all performed a pre-draft workout for Indiana at some point. Many others did, too.
Pacers’ NBA Draft 2025 Strategy Shaped by Finals Run
After a surprise Finals run and Haliburton’s injury, the Pacers face a unique NBA Draft 2025 with only one pick and big roster decisions looming.
ForbesTony East

I wouldn't expect a trade into the first round given that salary cap frugality is a primary motivator for the Pacers this offseason and first round picks come with guaranteed, full-roster contracts.

Tomorrow, however, moving up in the second round seems like a good bet. The Pacers have needs at third-string point guard (especially with Tyrese out for the foreseeable future) and at third-string (maybe backup) center.

EDIT: They made a trade while I was writing!

As always, let's hear your wants, needs, and predictions in the comments. Happy draft day!

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