Indiana Pacers: One bold prediction for each starter in 2022-23

Indiana Pacers starting C: Isaiah Jackson

Jackson finishes as the league leader in blocks per game

Yes, Myles Turner is still on the roster. However, for all intents and purposes, starting Isaiah Jackson at center is the best option for the Indiana Pacers next season, not only for youth movement reasons, but also for actual basketball ones.

Jackson is undeniably the better rim runner than his veteran counterpart, which makes him a better pick-and-roll weapon for the team. However, this prediction will zoom in more on his other eye-popping skill: shot blocking.

In just 15 minutes per game last season, the springy big man averaged 1.4 swats per outing. That number balloons to 3.5 when adjusted to per-36 minutes scaling, a mark that would have led the league last season (a tenth over the second one, Turner). I-Jax may not average that extensive serving of court time next season, but given the Pacers’ quick pace and his natural leaping ability, him leading the league in the blocks department is a sound expectation.