The Indiana Pacers enter the offseason with several roster questions, starting with rookie guard Kam Jones. Only 50 percent of Jones’ salary for next season is guaranteed, and both sides may consider moving his June 30 guarantee date to July so he can suit up for Indiana’s Summer League team.
Selected 38th overall in last year’s draft, Jones did not debut until late December because of a back injury and has since bounced in and out of the rotation. His contract runs through the 2028/29 season, though the final two years are fully non-guaranteed.
Indiana’s decision on Jones could hinge on whether the club keeps its top-four protected first-round pick in the upcoming draft, a factor that would affect the limited roster spots available. Options include retaining him, waiving him outright, or waiving and stretching his 2026/27 cap hit over multiple seasons.
Sheppard Eligible for Extension
Third-year guard Ben Sheppard becomes eligible for a rookie-scale extension this summer. After a slow start and a calf strain, the 23-year-old has found rhythm since returning in late December, taking tougher defensive assignments and expanding his offensive game. “I’ve been able to experiment within my game and my comfort level this season,” Sheppard said, noting improved shot creation and aggressiveness.
Warm Welcome for Mathurin, Jackson
Former Pacers first-round picks Bennedict Mathurin and Isaiah Jackson played their first game in Indianapolis as members of the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night. During the first stoppage, a tribute video drew strong applause from the Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd. “It meant the world,” Mathurin said. “Indy is like my first home.” Head coach Rick Carlisle called the moment “heartwarming” and explained the trade by saying the club could not make Mathurin’s upcoming restricted free-agency fit contractually.
Walker Exits With Head Injury
Forward Jarace Walker left Friday’s one-point loss in the first quarter after a head injury and was ruled out while being evaluated for a concussion. Carlisle said the team will learn more about Walker’s status on Sunday and was uncertain whether the third-year player will enter concussion protocol.
The Pacers resume play Sunday as front-office decisions loom on guarantees, extensions, and injury management.
Source: Hoops Rumors
