The Pacers’ NBA Finals trade now seems clever following Tyrese Haliburton’s injury.

Pacers Make Bold Move Amid Finals Struggles

It’s not common for teams to make trades during the NBA Finals, but the Indiana Pacers broke that mold last week. While they were in a tough matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the front office finalized a trade with the New Orleans Pelicans.

Tyrese Halliburton suffered an Achilles injury in the first quarter of Game 7. The Thunder went on to defeat Indiana 103-91, claiming the NBA Championship. There’s been a lot of chatter, especially since Halliburton hasn’t undergone an MRI yet, suggesting he might have torn his Achilles.

This injury is particularly devastating for Halliburton, who had played heroically during the playoffs. He was hitting clutch shots and even made a memorable buzzer-beater in Game 1 of the Finals. Earlier in the series, he experienced calf tension, which, if it had occurred during the regular season, might have sidelined him for weeks. Despite this, he played in the critical Game 6, after which the toll came crashing down in Game 7.

Looking ahead, if Halliburton is sidelined next season, the Pacers might not be as strong. Yet, with the Eastern Conference being rather open, Indiana still has potential. Thanks to the deal made during the Finals, they have another avenue to explore.

In their trade with the Pelicans, the Pacers reacquired an unprotected 2026 first-round draft pick. Originally, this pick was involved in trades that routed it to New Orleans, connected to other deals regarding players.

The Pacers also sent the 23rd pick of the 2025 NBA Draft to New Orleans, along with picks for 2026. The Pelicans were looking to secure more picks, and in that process, Indiana has gained more control over its future. Should they decide to pivot and possibly tank next season, they now have that option open to them.

The Pelicans are anticipated to select ASA Newell, according to recent mock drafts. While there are several solid players available, it’s curious that New Orleans would trade for a pick as unprotected as the 23rd this year. Given the draft’s thin talent pool, especially as many players opted to return to college, it raises questions about the Pelicans’ strategy. Still, they likely see potential in the Pacers performing well next season after witnessing their Finals effort.

Unfortunately, there’s no silver lining for Halliburton’s injury; it’s a worst-case scenario for a franchise striving to return to the top. Halliburton, at just 25, still has plenty of time ahead, but predicting recovery from Achilles injuries can be tricky. To be candid, the Pacers could still be competitive even without him, considering how weak the East has been and how the rest of Indiana’s roster has been performing.

But if Indiana decides not to chase wins next season, they at least have options at their disposal. The 2026 NBA Draft looks promising, and perhaps it’s time for some luck to swing in favor of the Pacers after Halliburton’s setback.