Develop: Ben Sheppard
The 2023 first-round draft pick found a consistent rotation role from mid-January on. He struggled to hit shots and did not put up monster numbers, but Sheppard stuck in the playoff rotation. Over their 17 postseason games, the 6’6 wing averaged 5.2 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.0 assist in 19.7 minutes per contest. He shot 38.0 percent from 3-point range and proved he can play in the playoffs.
The Pacers have a logjam. Tyrese Haliburton, Aaron Nesmith, Andrew Nembhard, and T.J. McConnell are ahead of Sheppard in the rotation. When Bennedict Mathurin returns, does that leave any minutes for Sheppard?
The 23-year-old failed to shine in his two summer league contests. He averaged just 7.0 points and shot 25.0 percent from the field. Sheppard had a negative assist-to-turnover ratio, which leaves everyone questioning what is next.
Ben Sheppard is under contract for three more seasons at just $10.5 million total. It is a bargain deal that should keep the 6’6 wing on their roster for a couple more years.
Sheppard must continue improving if he wants to stick with the Indiana Pacers. It starts with putting his summer league struggles behind him. Sheppard needs to upgrade his shooting and defense. Expect those to be his focus as he ramps up for his second NBA season.