Pacers’ Lottery Slip Sends Fifth Pick to Clippers, President Pritchard Apologizes

Context The Pacers entered the 2024 NBA Draft lottery with a 52.1 % chance to keep a top‑four pick, a protection clause tied to a trade for centre Ivica Zubac. The team finished 29th in the league, securing the lottery odds but also confirming a season marked by injuries and a Game 7 loss in the 2024 Finals.

Key Facts The lottery draw on Sunday placed Indiana at the fifth spot, activating the protection clause and transferring the pick to the Clippers. President of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard addressed fans on social media, saying, “I own taking this risk. I’m really sorry to all our fans. Surprised it came up fifth after this year.” He emphasized that the Zubac acquisition was intended to give the Pacers a starting centre capable of competing with elite teams.

Star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who tore his Achilles tendon in the Finals Game 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, missed the entire 2025‑26 season. His absence, combined with other injuries, contributed to the Pacers’ slide from championship contender to league bottom.

What It Means Losing the protected pick reduces Indiana’s leverage in the upcoming draft, where the class is considered deep across multiple positions. The Clippers now hold an extra high‑value selection, potentially accelerating their roster rebuild. For the Pacers, the Zubac trade remains the only immediate upgrade to the frontcourt, but the team must navigate a roster without Haliburton for the upcoming season.

The franchise’s next steps will focus on Haliburton’s recovery timeline, Zubac’s integration, and positioning for the 2025‑26 draft. Watch how Indiana leverages free agency and potential trade assets to offset the lost pick while aiming to return to contention.