Indiana Pacers mock draft roundup: What experts say the team will do in the NBA Draft
It's NBA Draft week. On Thursday, 58 players will hear their name called and will join the professional ranks. It's one of the most significant days on the NBA calendar.
The Indiana Pacers will be an active team on Thursday. They have five selections, including three in the first round. The franchise doesn't want to actually bring in five rookies, though, so they are likely to make a few trades.
In total, Indiana has picks seven, 26, 29, 32, and 55 in the draft. Because their picks are so spread out, they could make several interesting moves as the week progresses. What do the latest round of mock drafts say the Pacers will do in the top-10 come Thursday? Diving in reveals some themes.
ESPN (Jonathan Givony): Pacers select Houston forward Jarace Walker
In every mock draft roundup, Walker has been a common choice for Indiana. His defensive versatility is impressive, and his IQ on the less glamorous end of the floor stands out. The Pacers need defense, so he could be a strong fit.
The Ringer (Kevin O'Connor): Pacers select Villanova forward Cam Whitmore
Whitmore worked out for the Pacers in early June, and his upside is obvious. Few prospects match his physical traits. The power, athleticism, and speed he displays is unique and could make him a hard scorer to contain one day.
There will be questions about his defense, shooting, and fit alongside some established Pacers players. But there is no doubt that Whitmore is talented.
Yahoo Sports (Krysten Peek): Pacers select Houston forward Jarace Walker
Walker also worked out for the Pacers with his trip coming on June 7. He had a chance to show Indiana executives and scouts what he is all about. His offensive game is varied, with questions about his efficiency and creation abilities. But his defense may be so strong that it doesn't matter.
The Athletic (Sam Vecine): Pacers select Central Florida forward Taylor Hendricks
If Walker is the best defensive forward in the draft, Hendricks isn't far behind in second. The UCF wing is a ridiculous rim protector for a forward, and he can stay in front of his own man on the perimeter as well.
Hendricks also canned nearly 40% of his threes in the NCAA ranks, which is appealing. He worked out for the blue and gold earlier this month and discussed his fit in the modern NBA.
CBS Sports (Kyle Boone): Pacers select Houston forward Jarace Walker
Walker to the Pacers is a common mock draft choice, and for good reason. He could give the Pacers the imposing, forceful four man that they need. When breaking down his skills, it's easy to connect his high-level abilities with what the blue and gold lack. Walker might end up in Indiana when it's all said and done.
The Pacers also possess four other picks, but it is unlikely they make five selections. Most of the interest in their draft strategy revolves around pick seven. Everything will be known by the end of Thursday.
- Which NBA Draft prospects have worked out for the Indiana Pacers in 2023? CLICK HERE.
- Source: Ausar Thompson withdraws from pre-draft workout with Indiana Pacers. CLICK HERE.
- Who are the Indiana Pacers free agents in 2023? CLICK HERE.
- The Indiana Pacers may look to trade the seventh pick in the NBA Draft for wing players, according to multiple reports. CLICK HERE.
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