Update: Per ESPN's Shams Charania, Wiseman has officially been diagnosed with "a torn left Achilles tendon." Furthermore, Charania says that the two sides are "working to determine treatment options."
Original story: In his first game with the Indiana Pacers, big man James Wiseman, who signed a minimum contract with the team this past offseason, suffered a non-contact injury against his former team, the Detroit Pistons.
Wiseman suffered the injury in the first quarter. Early on, it was determined to be a leg injury, though it is unknown to what extent or how bad it is. In an official post on X, the Pacers called it a left calf injury. Furthermore, Wiseman went into the locker room and was already ruled out for the rest of the game.
Pacers writer Scott Agness took to social media to talk about the possibility of it being an Achilles injury due to Wiseman's reaction to the injury. However, it is important to note that, while we will likely get the full details sooner rather than later, nothing is known yet.
James Wiseman now back in the locker room with the medical staff after non-contact injury in Detroit.
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) October 23, 2024
Looked at his left foot/calf like someone hit it after a 3-point attempt, which is immediate concern for an Achilles.
He’s ruled out for the game. pic.twitter.com/LFazji3fMB
Before his early departure, Wiseman recorded six points on 2-for-4 shooting and one rebound in less than five minutes.
James Wiseman suffers non-contact injury in season opener, ruled out for rest of game
Though his career has been underwhelming so far as a former No. 2 overall pick, there was a lot to be excited about with the 23-year-old's arrival in Indiana. Wiseman has a legitimate opportunity to develop and rejuvenate his career in Indiana. His athleticism and size make him a great fit for the Pacers, especially on the offensive end.
Unfortunately for the Pacers, Wiseman's injury is not the only one affecting the team's center depth. Isaiah Jackson, who is entering a potential breakout campaign following Jalen Smith's departure this offseason, is inactive for Indiana's season opener due to a groin injury. He is currently considered day-to-day and has no concrete timetable yet.
If Wiseman is forced to miss any amount of time, the Pacers will rely more heavily on Jackson when he returns. Additionally, the Pacers will likely roll out more small-ball lineups and slot players like Pascal Siakam, Obi Toppin, and even rookie Enrique Freeman in at center. While this is not ideal, it is good enough for the time being to provide some on-court relief for starter Myles Turner.
Losing Wiseman is a big loss for Indiana, especially given that he looked solid in preseason and seemed eager to begin his tenure with the team. Hopefully for him and the Pacers, Wiseman will return to action on the court soon.