Kobe Brown’s arrival in the trade that sent Ivica Zubac from Los Angeles to Indiana is paying quick dividends for the Pacers. After spending much of the season on the Clippers’ bench, the second-year forward has logged regular minutes in Indiana, appearing in five games—including one start—and averaging 10.2 points and 6.8 rebounds across 26.4 minutes.
The 24-year-old delivered a season-best 15 points and seven boards in just 19 minutes during Sunday’s loss to the Dallas Mavericks. “This is a great chance for us to figure out as much as we can about him,” head coach Rick Carlisle said, according to The Indianapolis Star.
Brown becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer after the Clippers declined their 2026-27 option. Veteran forward Pascal Siakam believes Brown is making the most of the showcase. “When you’re open, shoot it. Other than that, just play as hard as you can,” Siakam said.
Siakam stays aggressive
Siakam, unaffected by Indiana’s lottery position or a lingering left hamstring issue, poured in 30 points on 12-of-19 shooting against Dallas—his 11th 30-point effort of the year—while adding eight rebounds and three assists. The Pacers were plus-seven during his 29 minutes on the court. “Anyone that knows me knows that I want to play,” Siakam said postgame.
Haliburton sidelined with shingles
All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton will be away from the team for a few weeks after being diagnosed with shingles, ESPN reported. Carlisle called the illness “a very painful thing” but expects Haliburton to make a full recovery, noting the guard has remained in good spirits.
The Pacers enter the final weeks of the season balancing development opportunities for Brown, Siakam’s push to stay active, and Haliburton’s recovery timeline.
Source: Hoops Wire
