Clippers Snag Pacers’ Top-5 Pick: Zubac Deal Backfires
Indiana Pacers fans are reeling after their team surrendered a valuable draft asset in the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery. Landing at the fifth spot on Sunday in Chicago triggered the transfer of their first-round pick to the LA Clippers, stemming from a mid-season trade for centre Ivica Zubac. Pacers president Kevin Pritchard issued a public apology on X, acknowledging the gamble while standing by the decision to bolster the roster.This outcome highlights the high-stakes nature of NBA trades involving protected picks. Below, we unpack the lottery details, the trade specifics, Pritchard's response, and Indiana's next steps with Tyrese Haliburton eyeing…
