Ethan Thompson made an immediate impact when the Indiana Pacers signed him to a two-way deal in November. But after being inactive for a large portion of Indiana's game in 2026, Thompson has been getting some reps as the end of the season approaches, and he's quickly reminding the team how good he can be.
During the Pacers' 145-126 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Apr. 1, the California native recorded 24 points (his previous career high was 15) on 8-for-15 shooting (including 5-for-8 from deep), five assists, two rebounds, two steals, and one block in 31 minutes.
Thompson can play, and it's clear that the Pacers like him by giving him this opportunity. He might never be the best player on the court, but he is a jack-of-all-trades type of guy and provides value in many different ways.
The 26-year-old is likely going to get more opportunities before the season officially ends in a couple of weeks. And if he can continue to showcase his talents, he will be a player worth keeping an eye on next season as well.
Ethan Thompson has been solid during his time with the Pacers
His game against Chicago was probably the best of Thompson's young NBA career, but it wasn't his only good one. In 26 games for the Pacers, he has double-digit points in nine of them. Additionally, he has recorded three or more assists in seven games, two or more steals in four, and he has shot 40% or better from the field in 11 (only three of these games included fewer than five field goal attempts).
Thompson can do a bit of everything. He can score, shoot, pass, rebound, and defend, all at at least a decent level. His inconsistencies are a bit of an issue (he is still just shooting 38.4% from the field this season), but this largely has to do with his lack of consistent opportunity. Additionally, it doesn't help that he's turning 27 years old in May. For reference, he's older than Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, and Aaron Nesmith.
What Thompson's future in Indiana has in store remains to be seen, but it's clear that he provides some value. For the rest of this season, he should be in line for some more opportunities, and if he can continue to make the most of them, there could be a bigger role in his near future with the Pacers.