As the NBA playoffs continue, the Indiana Pacers have received clarity on their financial situation and assets heading into the 2024 NBA offseason. The Pacers are currently facing the Milwaukee Bucks in the postseason, but the end of the regular season was crucial for their financial knowledge. By winning their final game against the Atlanta Hawks, the Pacers secured a playoff spot, which triggered a $250,000 bonus for wing Doug McDermott as part of his contract incentive.
McDermott, who was acquired by the Pacers at the trade deadline in February, had not been in the playoffs since the 2021-22 season. The sharpshooter spent the previous 2.5 seasons with the San Antonio Spurs but found his way back to the postseason with the Pacers this year. Despite his defensive limitations, McDermott’s earnings from the Pacers increased due to the team’s playoff berth. With two playoff appearances under his belt this season, McDermott expressed his excitement about being back in the playoffs and praised the team’s camaraderie.
In addition to McDermott’s bonus, the Pacers now have a clear picture of their draft pick situation for the 2024 NBA Draft. They initially had two first-round selections, which were traded to the Toronto Raptors for Pascal Siakam. However, the Pacers hold three second-round picks for the upcoming draft, including those from Toronto, Cleveland, and New Orleans, which were acquired through various trades over the years.
The tiebreaks for draft positioning were particularly relevant for the Pacers, as they needed to determine their worst second-round pick for a trade made at this year’s deadline with the Golden State Warriors. The tiebreaker placed the Pacers in possession of New Orleans’ late second-round pick, while the Bucks’ selection went to the Warriors. Although it only resulted in a two-slot movement, the Pacers now have a clear understanding of their draft picks, with selections at 36th, 49th, and 50th overall.
With all the details about their team-building situation settled, the Pacers are focused on their current playoff run and will only shift their attention to the NBA Draft once their postseason journey concludes. The team remains determined to make a strong showing in the playoffs and is looking to make the most of their assets and financial resources in the offseason to improve their roster. As they navigate the postseason battles, the Pacers are optimistic about their future and the possibilities that lie ahead in the upcoming offseason.
