5 Indiana Pacers that could shock the world this season
By Tyler Watts
3. Jarace Walker
The Pacers traded back from seventh to eighth in the 2023 draft to add two second-round picks. They took Walker, who appeared to be their target at seven. The 6’8 forward fills a need at the four and offers a versatile skill set.
Despite being a top-ten pick, there is not much hype for Walker. The 19-year-old played just one college season and struggled to make shots during his four summer league games. Walker was doing too much and trying too hard to impress in Vegas.
The 6’8 forward can defend multiple positions, rebound, and make shots. There will be hiccups as with any rookie. Walker will be on the fringes of the rotation in the early going, but expect him to come on in the second half.
The 19-year-old is competing with Obi Toppin, Aaron Nesmith, Jalen Smith, and Isaiah Jackson for minutes. There will be plenty of open opportunities, and the Pacers will need more from Walker if they plan on making the playoffs.
It is often unwise to rely on a teenage rookie for meaningful production, but Jarace Walker has an NBA-ready body and versatile skill set to speed up his learning curve. Walker will be a key rotation piece after the All-Star break and could play a meaningful role in the playoffs in year one.