Fans are expecting Johnny Furphy to make a major second-year leap for the Indiana Pacers next season, but they have just been given another reason to be excited about him. According to Jordan Morey of NBA.com, the Australian native has put on 20 pounds of muscle in the offseason, and that should only make him an even bigger force on the court next season.
"Just weeks after the Finals ended, Furphy impressed in Summer League play across three games. He said he gained 20 pounds of muscle, and it showed in those exhibitions with an improved inside game," Morey wrote.
“Just weeks after the Finals ended, Furphy impressed in Summer League play across three games. He said he gained 20 pounds of muscle, and it showed in those exhibitions with an improved inside game.”
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) September 12, 2025
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As Morey mentioned, Furphy looked fantastic in his limited Summer League action this year. In three games, the Kansas alum averaged 11.3 points, 4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and a steal in just 22.9 minutes. Additionally, he shot 52% from the field. Not to mention, Furphy also had one of the best highlights of Summer League after his poster on Chicago Bulls rookie Noa Essengue went viral.
Ahead of his second season in the league, many fans are excited to see what Furphy can do in what should be an expanded role for him. There is a lot to like about his game and his potential, but given this new development, things may become even scarier for him and the Pacers.
Johnny Furphy can be a big-time contributor in Indiana
He did not play much at the NBA level during his rookie season, but when he did, it became clear that Furphy has the makings of being a legitimate contributor with the team.
The 20-year-old has many strengths that should bode well for his success with the Pacers. He can be a fantastic shooter, he is incredibly athletic, and he at least provides some value in every aspect of the game. Furthermore, his versatility and ability to play multiple positions are something that could set him apart from other players on the Pacers, such as Ben Sheppard.
It is clear that he still needs a lot of development, and it remains to be seen exactly how much value he can provide at the NBA level. Either way, things look good for him early on, and fans have genuine reasons to be excited about his potential and what he can bring to the table.
With Tyrese Haliburton on the shelf for all of next year, plenty of Pacers are set to be in line for bigger roles. This certainly includes players like Andrew Nembhard and Bennedict Mathurin, but Furphy is another player to keep an eye on as well.
As it stands, it is evident that Furphy has fans within the Pacers organization and some of the team's alumni. And next year, he will have an opportunity to prove them right as he prepares for a major second-year leap.