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Pacers Eye Top Draft Pick Amid Rebuilding Bulls

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Indiana Pacers, holding the league's worst record at 15-53, have a 14% chance to secure the top pick in the May 10, 2026 draft lottery.
Cameron Boozer of Duke, A.J. Dybantsa of Brigham Young University (BYU), and Darryn Peterson of Kansas are among the potential top selections.
The Chicago Bulls are rebuilding and eye Boozer and Dybantsa as cornerstone players, with March Madness serving as an evaluation period.

History

Historical Context

The NBA introduced a draft lottery system in 1985 to combat "tanking" and promote competitive balance. The New York Knicks won the inaugural lottery, selecting Patrick Ewing first overall despite a 22-60 record. This system continues to influence team strategies, as seen with the Indiana Pacers' 14% chance for the top pick in 2023, highlighting ongoing concerns about performance and rebuilding.

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Story summary

The Indiana Pacers, holding the league's worst record at 15-53, have a 14% chance to secure the top pick in the May 10, 2026 draft lottery.
Cameron Boozer of Duke, A.J. Dybantsa of Brigham Young University (BYU), and Darryn Peterson of Kansas are among the potential top selections.
The Chicago Bulls are rebuilding and eye Boozer and Dybantsa as cornerstone players, with March Madness serving as an evaluation period.

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