The Pacers and Lakers finally completed a trade. Much to the dismay of Twitter GMs, it did not involve Myles Turner, Buddy Hield, or the 17th pick.

Essentially, the Pacers moved back seven spots in the second round in exchange for $4.35 million dollars in cash. It's a move that's more interesting to team accountants than fans, but perhaps we can glean some insight from the decision.

Clearly the team is not putting a premium on drafting at the top of the second round, having moved back twice already. Perhaps they feel that the depth in the second round is fungible and draft position is not of the utmost importance.

My assumption has always been that they would only use one second round pick this year and that player would be signed to a Two-Way contract. Assuming they keep Kendall Brown, that would leave one open Two-Way spot going into Summer League and training camp. The Pacers like to use an open spot as an incentive for the G-League and undrafted prospects who sign with them. I wouldn't be surprised if we consolidate 47 and 55 – or trade one for a future second – before the end of the night.

On the other hand, perhaps the team is planning a bigger move, either tonight or in free agency, that will have serious financial implications. While the cash considerations received from the Lakers will not show up on the cap sheet, it will engender goodwill with the Simon Family. Could a bit of belt tightening in the draft help justify outlays elsewhere?

The most likely answer is that the trade was simply an opportunity to engage in some prudent asset management, something Pritchard has excelled at during his tenure as President of Basketball Operations.

One thing is for sure, the front office is being active on the phones and we shouldn't expect it to let its foot off the gas anytime soon. Expect more trade announcements in the near future.

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