2026 NBA Draft Scouting Report for Indiana Pacers' No. 38 Pick Braden Smith

The Indiana Pacers (via Chicago Bulls) have officially selected Braden Smith with the No. 38 pick in the 2026 NBA draft.

Smith became college basketball's all-time assist leader as a senior at Purdue.

Despite measuring 5'10", 166 pounds, he's kept scouts' minds open with his signature playmaking.

Smith's skill set and numbers didn't change much from season to season. But over the last four years, in 149 games, he's made enough big shots, passes, and winning plays for NBA teams to consider that Smith possesses outlier-level skill and intangibles.

Braden Smith Highlights

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Essential Facts, Stats, Combine Measurements

College: Purdue | Position: Guard | Age: 22 | Height: 5'10.25" | Weight: 166 lbs | Wingspan: 6'3.25" | PPG: 14.3 | RPG: 3.5 | APG: 8.8 | BPG: 0.2 | SPG: 1.2 | FG%: 43.8 | 3PT%: 37.6 | FT%: 86.8

Realistic Pro Comparison: Tyler Kolek

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Braden Smith is a few inches smaller, but his pick-and-roll IQ, capable shot-making and toughness resemble Tyler Kolek's game.

Like Kolek, Smith will be valued for his ability to set the table—not necessarily his scoring.

Still, both can provide enough shooting to help offset issues they have creating separation.

Strengths

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Strength 1: Passing IQ

Smith is an elite-level manipulator and passer, consistently creating quality looks for teammates with his vision and anticipation. He excels in pick-and-roll situations and can deliver accurate passes from a variety of angles.

Strength 2: Shooting

He has developed into a reliable three-point shooter, shooting over 41.0 percent off the catch and dribble. His perimeter shot-making complements his playmaking, making him difficult to contain in ball-screen actions.

Strength 3: Intangibles

Smith plays with tremendous poise and understanding of the game, rarely forcing unnecessary plays. He controls the tempo effectively and makes quick, intelligent reads that keep the offense organized.

Weaknesses

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Weakness 1: Tools/athleticism

At around 5'10" barefoot, Smith lacks the size and length that many NBA teams prefer at the point guard position. Bigger, more athletic opponents can sometimes shoot over him or target him in mismatches.

Weakness 2: Rim pressure

In 1344 total minutes, he only wound up with 90 field-goal attempts at the rim. He lacks burst and strength for drives.

Weakness 3: Finishing potential

Smith seems likely to struggle around the basket without having much size or explosiveness. He had four total dunk attempts in four years. Although this year's floater numbers don't match up with his previous ones, he somehow shot 0 for 15 for the season.