8 points, 9 seconds
Fansided

This one Indiana Pacers player has earned a spot in the rotation

Despite some warts, it's clear the positives that Jarace Walker has shown in Summer League outweigh the negatives.

By Ryan Stano

Mar 1, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Jarace Walker (5) looks to pass the ball against New Orleans Pelicans forward Jeremiah Robinson-Earl (50) during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 1, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Jarace Walker (5) looks to pass the ball against New Orleans Pelicans forward Jeremiah Robinson-Earl (50) during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports / Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
facebooktwitterreddit

Coming into Summer League, the Indiana Pacers were really looking for one player to assert himself during the games. That player is Jarace Walker. He was the 8th overall pick a year ago and didn't get into the rotation. He wasn't ready defensively and didn't make good enough decisions offensively.

Heading into his second season, the Pacers were hoping to see improvements on both regards. His shot needed help with consistency as well. Through three games in Summer League, Walker's offense has shown that improvement. It's not just his shot that has been impressive either.

Walker has shown a great ability to finish at the rim as well as hit three-point shots. His pull-up threes have been something new he's added to his game. in three games, he's shooting 47% from deep. His passing has also become really sharp. Despite still being shaky on the defensive end, those offensive traits should earn him a spot in the rotation.

Jarace Walker's offense has earned him a spot in the Pacers' rotation

Walker was moved to the wing over the Summer because that's where Indiana is hoping he can play now that Pascal Siakam and Obi Toppin are back. His vision has become the most important thing that has developed this Summer because this is a team that really likes to share the ball.

Defensively, he still needs to slide his feet more and stay in front of his man. He can get chase-down blocks but relies too much on them. His defense is part of the reason why Indiana needs him so badly off the bench. His handle still needs work as well.

Still, his offense has been too good to ignore. He can also rebound the ball at a good level at the wing spot. He can continue to work on his defense as the season progresses. The bottom line is that he needs to play and get minutes in NBA games and not just Summer League games.

manual

Walker has shown just enough in Summer League to warrant a spot in the rotation. If he can limit the turnovers and stay in front of his man better, the Pacers might have found a way for their lottery pick to impact the game.

Home/Pacers News