Jalen

Slawson

Slawson, who remains a restricted free agent after spending last season on a two-way contract, made up for his poor shooting with elite defense. The Pacers forward blocked five shots and recorded a steal, and he was also effective on the glass alongside undrafted rookie Rienk Mast (16/11/3/1 with one three-pointer). Slawson shot 2-of-9 from beyond the arc, but that isn’t something the Pacers will ask him to do much of next season if the team remains healthy.

Sheppard will miss a fifth straight game to wrap up the regular season. Kam Jones, Quenton Jackson and Jalen Slawson should all take on extra minutes with Sheppard out. Sheppard is in the final year of his rookie contract in 2026-27 and profiles as their fourth guard behind a healthy Tyrese Haliburton, Aaron Nesmith and Andrew Nembhard.

While Walker started Friday’s loss to the 76ers, Sheppard did not play. If available, they’ll take on their usual roles, with Sheppard providing depth off the bench. And there will still be rotation minutes available to Jalen Slawson.

Brown will be back following a one-game absence. Jalen Slawson got the starting nod in his place, but with Brown available, Slawson will likely be pushed back to playing a role off the bench.

Both players will be out for another game, and Jalen Slawson could take on additional minutes. Kobe Brown (back) is questionable, and if he’s available, he could be in line for an expanded role.

The Pacers have made two changes to their starting lineup, one prompted by injury. Slawson will fill the void left by Kobe Brown, while Potter’s insertion into the lineup means that Jay Huff will come off the bench. Also, Walker is available after being a game-time decision.

Brown, who exited Tuesday’s loss to the Timberwolves during the second quarter and did not return, will not play on Thursday. His absence means more playing time for Jalen Slawson, whose ceiling could be raised even higher if Jarace Walker can’t play. Walker is a game-time decision with a hip injury.

Thursday’s game will be the third that Siakam has missed, and the sixth straight on the sidelines for Nesmith. Jalen Slawson may benefit the most regarding playing time, as Kobe Brown and Jarace Walker are considered questionable for Thursday night.

Brown had to exit Tuesday’s loss to the Timberwolves at halftime, while Walker played 28 minutes in his first game after a four-game absence. Jalen Slawson would likely log heavy minutes if one or both cannot play against the Nets.

Brown played 16 first-half minutes before being sidelined by a sore lower back. Jalen Slawson replaced Brown in the lineup to begin the third quarter. He should have more opportunities in the Pacers’ remaining games if Brown has to miss time.