The Pacers are in rebuild mode with too many guards to find Duarte meaningful minutes.

The Lakers are in need of shooters on cheap contracts and this deal keeps a first round pick in their pocket for a further trade. Duarte had a rough second year because of injury and lack of opportunity. He’d likely return closer to his norms with a rebound year with the Lakers.

Pacers would now be in position to possibly trade up further if they want into the late lottery, packaging 17, 29, and 32.