The Indiana Pacers didn't have a first-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft because of the Pascal Siakam trade. They traded both of their first-round picks this year to the Raptors for him. Instead, they had three second-round picks to use in the Draft. They used the first of those on Johnny Furphy out of Kansas.
Furphy was thought to have been a first-round talent. Instead, he slipped to the second round and was the 35th overall pick. He was the prospect that the Pacers thought had the best chance to make the roster. They love his shooting and his length on the wing.
Against the Timberwolves in the Pacers' second Summer League game, he was able to show off some things that could give him that final roster spot that they currently have open. He was able to make some shots and play some hard defense.
Pacers wing Johhny Furphy showed how good he can be
Furphy finished the game with 18 points on 7/14 shooting. He was just 2/8 from deep, which is part of the reason why they drafted him in the first place, but that's still okay. He's just a rookie. What was impressive was his ability to rebound and deflect a lot of balls.
Furphy's defense was something that was a little better than I thought it would be. He was getting hunted by the Timberwolves on defense at first and then they thought better of it when he kept poking away the ball. He ended up getting two steals and two blocks.
If Furphy can find his footing with his three-point shot, he has a chance to make the roster. He's a good player with good potential. Would he play right away? Unlikely. The rotation is pretty set with a team that is a contender to get out of the East next season.
That doesn't mean that Furhpy wouldn't get valuable playing time in blowout games. He just needs some NBA experience to be a little better. A few more Summer League games like this and he will be able to definitely make the roster.