Just before this year's trade deadline, the Indiana Pacers traded Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, and picks to the Los Angeles Clippers for Ivica Zubac and Kobe Brown.
Because of Mathurin no longer being on the roster (and just the simple fact that Indiana chose not to include him in the deal), Jarace Walker might be the Pacers' biggest winner of this trade.
Things are finally looking up for Jarace Walker
This entire season has been a roller coaster of emotions for Walker.
Entering the year, there were plenty of people excited to see what he was going to be able to do in an increased role (myself included), but it got pretty ugly very quickly.
One month into the season, the Houston alum was averaging 9.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 2.1 turnovers while shooting 30.7% from the field and 28.2% from deep in 16 games. Additionally, he looked very hesitant with the ball in his hands, and he still looked lost on defense.
His poor performances early in the season led many to think he could be a trade candidate. At that point, it seemed like a change of scenery would've been the best thing for him. However, he's greatly turned things around over the past month or so, and he's quickly reminding the Pacers just what he brings to the table.
Since Christmas, Walker has averaged 11.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1 steal while shooting 49.2% from the field and 48.2% from deep in 21 games. He also looks way more comfortable on the court on both sides of the ball and is making a big impact.
The Pacers chose not to sell high on the 22-year-old. And if you ask me, I think that was 100% the right call.
It hasn't fully clicked for Walker yet, but it's clear that the talent is there. He can score. He can shoot. He can play and guard all five positions. He can be physical. He can rebound. And he still has a ton of untapped potential. All he needs moving forward is an opportunity to grow and develop in his role. And with Mathurin out of the picture, that's going to open up plenty of chances for him to do exactly that.
Walker might never live up to his pre-draft hype, but that doesn't mean he can't still be a long-term contributor in Indiana. And for a team that is looking to stay in the title picture for years, keeping someone like Walker around could pay dividends.