5 Indiana Pacers that could shock the world this season
By Tyler Watts
4. Bruce Brown
Brown broke out last season as the 6’4 guard helped the Nuggets win the championship. His versatile skill set creates options. Brown can set screens, handle the ball, make plays, and defend multiple positions. The 27-year-old struggled with his jumper coming out of the University of Miami, but it is steadily improving.
The Pacers signed him to a two-year $45 million contract in free agency, which many viewed as an overpay. Brown made $15.1 million in his first five years in the NBA combined after being a second-round pick in 2018. The 6’4 guard is set to earn $22 million this season with a $23 million team option for the 2024-25 campaign.
Brown will shock the world by playing over 30 minutes per game for the first time in his career while showing off his improving playmaking and shooting. His 3-point attempts and percentage will improve as he demonstrates a versatile all-around skill set that helps the Pacers win.
His defense will be massive in Indiana. The Pacers finished 26th in defensive rating last season, despite having an elite rim-protector in Myles Turner. They needed a boost on the perimeter, and Bruce Brown will provide it. His versatility helps the Indiana Pacers be a surprise playoff team in 2024.