San Antonio Spurs ditch No 38 pick to Indiana Pacers fueling debate over rebuild plan
The San Antonio Spurs are quietly making early moves before the draft night chaos takes full swing. While most teams are still lining up their picks, the Spurs have already pulled off a surprise.
As the 2025 NBA Draft builds momentum at Barclays Center, sources say the Spurs have traded away their No. 38 pick, hinting at a bigger long-term plan taking shape behind the scenes.
San Antonio Spurs send No. 38 pick to
Indiana Pacers
in early Draft Day deal
On June 26, during the first round of the NBA Draft at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, the San Antonio Spurs traded the No. 38 pick to the Indiana Pacers. This was the first confirmed trade of the night. In return, the Spurs will receive a future second-round pick and cash considerations, according to ESPN insider Shams Charania.
This early trade may not seem huge at first, but it gives the Spurs more flexibility for future drafts and adds money to their cap space. The Indiana Pacers, on the other hand, clearly want to build right now. They are aiming to use that No. 38 pick to bring in fresh talent this year.
Reports also say the Spurs were already considering pushing their rebuild timeline back, so a move like this helps them stack future assets. Meanwhile, the Pacers are targeting immediate depth and want to act fast during this year's draft window.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Indiana Pacers focus on win-now talent while Spurs plan for long-term growth
The Indiana Pacers want to go far in the playoffs next season. By picking up this draft spot, they're hoping to add a player who can help right away. It shows they're thinking about winning now, not waiting.
The San Antonio Spurs are still building their team slowly. They're focused on growing young talent for the future.
This trade lets them stay patient and flexible. A future second-rounder might not sound exciting, but it's a smart move for a team looking to keep their options open.
This isn't the biggest trade of the night, but it sets a tone. One team wants to build for the future. The other wants to win soon. Both sides gain something in return, either hope for now or plans for later.
Also Read:
Miami Heat's smart trade strategy puts Rui Hachimura and Dalton Knecht in spotlight
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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