Five Exciting Draft Options If the Pacers Do Not Trade up in the Draft
By George Moser
Which NBA Draft prospects could the Indiana Pacers target with the 54th overall pick?
The 2020 NBA Draft is scheduled to take place on Nov. 18 from ESPN Headquarters in Connecticut. Unless the Pacers decide to make a trade, Indiana will own the 54th overall pick. Generally, the 54th pick has not historically translated into big-name talent. Instead, the Pacers should look at potential talent and names that will make a difference off the court.
Rather than looking to make an impact on the court, the Pacers can look to make an impact in the headlines by drafting dynamic talent that will attract eyeballs outside of the Pacers’ usual audience.
In the 2019 NBA Draft, fans quickly fell in love with Bol Bol and Tacko Fall because of their impressive stature despite Bol Bol being selected in the second round and Tacko Fall signing as an undrafted free agent. Drafting can have a positive financial impact as well. Rui Hachimura became the second Japanese basketball player to be drafted in the NBA, translating into the Washington Wizards becoming popular in Japan and Hachimura’s jersey becoming a best seller.
In the upcoming draft, over 200 collegiate and international prospects have declared for the draft. By the time the Pacers are ultimately on the clock, there will be a lot of talent still available. It will be up to the Pacers to maximize their pick.