3 things the Pacers could do if they crash in the NBA Draft Lottery

3. The Indiana Pacers could play the good guy role and trade down instead

Conversely, if the Indiana Pacers get an inferior pick, they could choose to be the sellers and be receptive to teams aiming to trade up. While they should not go all-in on this route, it could very viable and practical maneuver to take if teams are willing to part with multiple assets to move a spot or two.

One particular team that they could zoom in as a partner in this case is the San Antonio Spurs, which own three first-round selections in the draft. If the Spurs end up with the ninth pick, their projected spot, they could already be out of the running for a frontcourt piece, which is easily their biggest need. Moving up to seventh, however, could give them a chance at Griffin or Eason.

The reason why the Pacers could consider doing this is because there is little differentiation on the level of talent in the remaining crop of prospects in the lottery zone. Thus, Indiana can afford to move down a bit if that means that they can still get a valuable pick (or two) and/or a young player who can contribute next season.