Last season, then-rookie Jarace Walker appeared in 33 games for the Indiana Pacers. In those games, he averaged 3.6 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. Additionally, he shot 40.9% from the field and left much to be desired on the defensive side of the ball.
Despite a disappointing rookie campaign, expectations are high for the former top-10 pick as he prepares for his second NBA season. He looked promising in this year's Summer League showcase, and he still possesses a unique skillset that will help the Pacers contend immediately if he can live up to his potential.
Furthermore, Walker's expectations are even bigger now due to receiving a glowing endorsement from teammate Pascal Siakam, who has been working with him a lot this offseason.
Pascal Siakam lauds Jarace Walker's work ethic, says his 'time's coming'
During his first media day appearance as a member of the Pacers, Siakam spoke very highly of the soon-to-be second-year forward. This summer, Siakam held numerous workouts and took on a leadership role, which is very valuable to this young Pacers team. Additionally, according to Siakam, one of his best training partners and mentees was Walker.
According to Pacers writer Alex Golden, the former Toronto Raptors champion praised Walker's "I wanna get better mentality" and said he is "super talented."
I asked Pascal Siakam about working out and training with Jarace Walker this offseason and what his expectations for Jarace are this season:
— Alex Golden (@AlexGoldenNBA) September 30, 2024
“When we were in Orlando, I get a text from Jarace saying, when are you getting to the gym in the morning, I wanna be there. He took that… pic.twitter.com/uALdPSZYoO
“When we were in Orlando, I get a text from Jarace saying, 'When are you getting to the gym in the morning? I wanna be there.' He took that initiative, and he wants to get better. And for me, that’s the first thing you need as a player," Siakam said.
"A lot of young players don’t have that 'I wanna learn, I wanna get better mentality' and he has that. I always tell him, 'Your time’s coming.' You just have to continue to work, be ready, and don’t take anything for granted."
"I think he has the tools as a player. He’s super talented. We all know what he can do. It’s just about timing. I know his moment is going to come, and I’m sure he’s going to be ready because I’ve seen him with just his focus and all the different things that have changed with him in a short period of time.”
If there is anybody on this Pacers team who can be a great mentor for Walker, it is Siakam. The 30-year-old has been in the league since 2016 and gradually became an elite NBA player.
Initially a 27th-overall draft pick, Siakam did not become a regular starter until the 2018-19 season, when he took home the Most Improved Player award and his first-ever NBA championship. Additionally, he eventually became tasked with replacing Kawhi Leonard on the team after he joined the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2019 offseason.
Now, as he prepares for his ninth NBA season and first full one as a Pacer, Siakam is a two-time All-NBA selection and a two-time All-Star. Furthermore, his veteran presence and overall leadership make him a valuable asset to the Pacers. All in all, Siakam is a fantastic player to take Walker under his wing.
As for Walker himself, it is unclear what his role with the team will look like next season. Regardless, he has the potential to surprise a lot of people and bounce back from his rookie season. If he can continue his impressive Summer League run from just a few months ago, Walker will be in great shape to contribute to the Pacers now and for the long haul.