Pacers Prefer Cameron Boozer As No. 1

Merlin sees the Indiana Pacers might pick Duke forward Cameron Boozer if they land the No. 1 pick. Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reports rival teams believe Boozer would be the Pacers' "preferred selection" even with lottery control. Boozer has been viewed as a likely top five and possible top three prospect while the top pick debate centers on Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa. Merlin smells strategy. Choosing Boozer at one would surprise some draft watchers but would signal Indiana values fit and upside over conventional rankings. Such a decision would ripple through the board, altering trade plans and forcing rivals to adjust scouting priorities.