Johnny Furphy's summer league performance shows Pacers filled crucial role

With the 35th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the Indiana Pacers selected wing Johnny Furphy. Despite being a second-round draft pick, there was a lot to be excited about when it came to seeing the Australian native in a Pacers uniform. He has a solid offensive game and has the tools to be a great perimeter shooter in the NBA.

Additionally, Furphy provides a lot more than just good offense. He is a well-rounded player who showcased his talents at Kansas as a versatile defender who regularly brings energy and effort on the court. During Indiana's summer league showcase last month, Furphy gave Pacers fans reason to believe he will be a big part of the team's foreseeable future.

In four games during the 2024 Summer League, the Pacers rookie averaged 14 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1.8 steals per game. And although he shot poorly from beyond the arc in these games (28 3FG%), Furphy's outside game is one of his biggest appeals to the Pacers' system.

This postseason, Indiana made it to their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2014. Although they seem destined to remain in playoff contention and eventually become title contenders (if they are not there already), the Pacers have a lot of flaws on the team. If Furphy can build off his impressive summer league performance, he will help make the Pacers improve in different key areas.

Johnny Furphy can become a strong floor-spacing wing with an all-around game

The Pacers were one of the best offensive teams in the NBA last season, averaging a league-leading 123.3 points per game. They like to play a fast-paced level of offense, which is an area Furphy can help in. Furthermore, while he is not a lockdown defender, Furphy's defensive efforts and overall versatility can only help Indiana, especially as a wing.

It is unlikely that Furphy will crack the Pacers' rotation right away, especially considering the players ahead of him. However, it is fair to assume Furphy will play an important role on the team by the end of next season. He is a good player who should help the Pacers immensely as he continues to develop.