While Myles Turner's shocking departure to the Milwaukee Bucks took Indiana Pacers fans aback, there is one silver lining for some fans, which is that Jarace Walker may finally be in line for more consistent opportunities.
Since joining the Pacers in the 2023 NBA Draft, Walker has not gotten much of a fair chance with the team. In each of his first two seasons in Indiana, Walker has averaged just 14.1 minutes in 108 games. Despite a lackluster rookie season, the Houston alum looked better and more comfortable last season when he played, though he did not get many opportunities until closer to the end of the season, when he recorded double-digit points in seven of his last nine games.
Many fans have been calling for Walker to get more playing time in order for him to develop and showcase what he can bring to the Pacers. With Turner now officially out of the picture, this could give Walker more chances to make a name for himself in Indiana, which is exactly what fans have been hoping for.
Jarace Walker still has a lot of potential
Walker is still just 21 years old and has a lot of room to grow. Even so, there is already a lot to like about his game. He is physical and can play both forward positions. Furthermore, one of his most unique traits entering the draft was that he could play small-ball center, similar to what Draymond Green does with the Golden State Warriors. Considering that next year is a gap year following Tyrese Haliburton's injury, the Pacers may be inclined to experiment a little bit more, and that is where Walker comes into the equation.
The Pennsylvania native still has a lot of flaws, mostly his inconsistency on both sides of the ball. However, if he can get consistent playing time next season, he should have a great opportunity to iron this out. Walker has shown flashes on both sides of the ball, and if that is even a glimpse of what he brings to the table, the Pacers will have no choice but to keep him around for the long run as they look to remain in title contention.
Only time will tell how Turner's departure will look for Indiana. It is a risky move to lose him for nothing in free agency, especially since it is going to be incredibly difficult for the team to replace him this offseason. However, one thing is certain, and that is that Indiana has a great opportunity ahead of them with their long-time center now moving to Milwaukee.
The Pacers will be able to give their young players a lot more opportunities next season. They still have a very bright future, and they should be able to return to contention once Haliburton makes his return. Eyes will be on certain players like Andrew Nembhard, Bennedict Mathurin, and maybe even Johnny Furphy. However, it is important to keep an eye on Walker as well, as he may be in line for a breakout season with Turner no longer in the equation.