Jalen

Slawson

Slawson finished last season out with Indiana and was productive for them during summer league this month. That was enough for them to reward the 2023 second-round pick with a two-way deal. However, with Indiana set to return to contention this upcoming season, Slawson won’t match the 23.9 minutes per game that he played during his 13 games in March and April last season.

The Pacers don’t have an open two-way contract slot, but they can offer Slawson an Exhibit 10 deal, which would include an invitation to training camp. Given how he’s played in Las Vegas, the forward is making a good case to all 30 teams that he should be in the NBA next season. After putting up 26 points in Saturday’s loss to the 76ers, Slawson scored 21 more on Monday while also grabbing eight rebounds and blocking two shots. Given the contract uncertainty, there’s no need to begin planning to select him in fantasy drafts. However, Slawson has looked like a legitimate NBA player in Las Vegas.

Slawson’s energy and production were two reasons why the Pacers were able to rally from 24 points down to force overtime on Saturday. And that’s likely what the front office wants to see after declining to tender a two-way qualifying offer to the forward. While Slawson did not shoot the ball well on Friday, his activity may force some other teams with available two-way slots to keep an eye on him. Just in case the Pacers don’t look to hold onto the 2023 second-round pick.

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.