The Indiana Pacers may have just unveiled their next hidden gem

The Indiana Pacers are now 6-9 after last night's 130-113 loss to the Houston Rockets. In a season that has already been filled with disappointment, this loss is just another kick to the Pacers while they are down. However, despite the tough loss, there were some players who showed up for the Pacers, with an emphasis on one surprising star.

Indiana has dealt with numerous injuries this season. Isaiah Jackson and James Wiseman both suffered brutal Achilles injuries, and Aaron Nesmith and Andrew Nembhard are sidelined to due an ankle and a knee injury, respectively. We have already seen players like Bennedict Mathurin and Ben Sheppard shine in expanded roles, but the Pacers may have shown off another diamond in the rough against the Rockets.

Pacers guard Quenton Jackson looked incredible against the Rockets

Quenton Jackson is not an unfamiliar name for Pacers fans. The California native joined the team earlier this year and is currently on a two-way contract. Regardless, fans have not seen much of him in meaningful basketball games. Prior to last night, Jackson only played in nine regular season games over the last two seasons with the Pacers. However, the Pacers inserted him into the starting lineup last night, and to say he delivered is an understatement.

Despite the loss, the 26-year-old had arguably the best game of any Pacer. In the game, Jackson recorded 24 points on 10-for-12 shooting, two rebounds, three assists, two steaks, and a block. He was the team's leading scorer despite playing just 27 minutes, and only Houston's Alperen Sengun outscored Jackson in the game.

What makes Jackson an intriguing player for the Pacers is that he has good size at 6'5" and provides great energy and solid defense. Unfortunately for him, the Pacers already have a lot of backcourt depth. However, until Nembhard returns from injury, Jackson could be in line for more opportunities to showcase his talents.

There is a lot to like about Jackson, and last night's game could be the start of something bigger for his Pacers career. It is important to note that the Pacers no longer have an open roster spot after signing center Moses Brown a few days ago. Regardless, as the season progresses, assuming he gets more chances, Jackson could be a candidate to earn a standard contract with the team down the line.

The Pacers are in the midst of a tough stretch. There is still a lot of basketball left to be played, but it is concerning to see how far the team has dropped off from last season. Regardless, there are silver linings in the Pacers' slow start to the season, and Jackson may have proven he should be another name to add to that list.