It’s not every day you see a small-market team consistently rise through the Eastern Conference without a single max-contract free agent or a lottery win that changed the franchise overnight. Yet here the Indiana Pacers are—back in the Eastern Conference Finals for the second straight year for the first time since the Paul George era in 2013–14. This isn’t a story of luck. It’s a story of smart drafting, savvy trades, and value-driven free agent signings. Indiana’s front office cooked.
Let’s break down exactly how the Pacers built this well-oiled, ECF-worthy machine.
Built Through the Draft
The Pacers’ success is rooted in solid drafting, particularly in the past decade.
Myles Turner, selected 11th overall in 2015, is the longest-tenured Pacer and has been a cornerstone of their defense. His ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor at center has made him an ideal fit in the modern NBA.
Fast forward to 2022, a pivotal draft year. The Pacers landed Bennedict Mathurin with the 6th pick—an aggressive, high-scoring wing with All-Star potential. That same draft, they snagged Andrew Nembhard at No. 31, who has since developed into a high-IQ, steady presence at both guard positions.
The Pacers weren’t done. In 2023, they drafted Ben Sheppard with the 26th pick. Sheppard has proven to be a capable role player, earning minutes with his shooting and defensive effort. Then, in the 2024 draft, they added Enrique Freeman at No. 50—a late-round steal whose energy and rebounding have given the second unit a lift.
Indiana also acquired Jarace Walker and Johnny Furphy via draft-day trades in 2023 and 2024, respectively. Both have flashed upside and have contributed meaningful minutes during the Pacers’ playoff run.
Isaiah Jackson, a 2021 draft-day acquisition from the Lakers, adds athleticism and rim-running ability, rounding out a young and dynamic frontcourt.
Trades That Changed Everything
The turning point of Indiana’s roster transformation came in 2022, when they pulled off one of the boldest trades in franchise history. Sending Domantas Sabonis to Sacramento for Tyrese Haliburton turned out to be a franchise-defining move. Haliburton has become the face of the franchise—a lead guard with elite vision, shooting, and leadership. He’s the engine that drives Indiana’s offense and a rising star in the league.
In January 2024, Indiana doubled down and traded for Pascal Siakam from the Raptors. The move gave the Pacers an All-NBA caliber forward to pair with Haliburton—a two-way threat who brings championship experience, toughness, and versatility. It was a clear signal: the Pacers were going for it.
Other key trades include acquiring Obi Toppin from the Knicks in 2023, a high-flying forward who thrives in Indiana’s fast-paced system, and Aaron Nesmith from the Celtics in 2022, who has evolved into a reliable 3-and-D wing. The midseason addition of Thomas Bryant in 2024 from Miami provided veteran depth and physicality in the paint.
These trades weren’t just about names—they were about fit. Indiana’s front office identified players who could complement Haliburton’s style and maximize the team’s fast-paced, unselfish identity.
Free Agency: Smart, Not Flashy
Indiana hasn’t been a big player in free agency, but they’ve been smart. T.J. McConnell, signed in 2019, remains one of the most reliable backup point guards in the NBA. He’s a floor general, pest on defense, and leader in the locker room.
Veteran presence has also come in the form of James Johnson (2022) and Tony Bradley (2025), who provide mentorship and depth. In recent years, they’ve taken low-risk chances on Quenton Jackson and Rayj Dennis—young guards with upside—adding to the team’s flexibility.
The Bigger Picture
Indiana didn’t rebuild overnight. They stayed patient, built through the draft, and only made big trades when the timing was right. Now they’re reaping the rewards. The synergy between the coaching staff and front office has allowed for consistent development, and the team’s depth and chemistry shine in high-pressure playoff moments.
From the draft-day steal of Haliburton to the blockbuster move for Siakam, Indiana has built a squad that can contend without selling out its future. It’s a model for sustainable team-building—and one that’s finally getting its flowers on the national stage.
The Pacers are back in the ECF.
And this time, it feels like they’re just getting started.
