The Indiana Pacers are preparing for the upcoming season without Tyrese Haliburton, who is sidelined after suffering a torn Achilles. Alongside this setback, the team faces significant changes involving key players, including their recent free agency moves. The organization is focusing on reshaping its roster to navigate these challenges and maintain competitiveness in the near future.
One of the central figures in these changes is Myles Turner, the Pacers’ longtime center, who decided to sign a four-year contract worth over $100 million with the Milwaukee Bucks during free agency. Turner’s departure leaves a notable void in the Pacers’ frontcourt, affecting both on-court dynamics and team leadership.
Bench Center Thomas Bryant Likely to Leave as Team Rebuilds
Thomas Bryant, who played a reserve role backing up Turner during Indiana’s most recent season, is also expected to depart. Despite the Pacers’ deep run into the NBA Finals, Bryant appears unlikely to return, signaling that the team seeks fresh options at the center position. His free agency status means he is exploring opportunities with other franchises.
To fill these gaps, the Pacers have traded for center Jay Huff and secured Isaiah Jackson with a new multi-year contract. Additionally, the team welcomed back big man James Wiseman, all moves aimed at bolstering the frontcourt facing a significant transition.
Projected Team Lineup and Expectations for the Season
The anticipated Pacers rotation for the upcoming season includes a starting lineup of Andrew Nembhard, Bennedict Mathurin, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, and Isaiah Jackson. The second unit features TJ McConnell, Ben Sheppard, Johnny Furphy, Jarace Walker, Obi Toppin, and Jay Huff. This combination reflects the team’s reliance on both young talent and acquired depth to counterbalance the loss of key veterans.
“The Pacers’ current projected rotation next season: Starters: Andrew Nembhard, Bennedict Mathurin, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, Isaiah Jackson. Second Unit: TJ McConnell, Ben Sheppard, Johnny Furphy, Jarace Walker, Obi Toppin, Jay Huff. Indiana’s over/under win total is 38.5.” — Evan Sidery, NBA Analyst
While this lineup shows promise, the Pacers face an uphill battle to meet expectations, with forecasts placing their win total around 38.5 games. The team’s adaptability and player development will be crucial in defining their success.
Player Ratings Reflect Team’s Current Status
Recent assessments of the Pacers’ 2k26 player ratings demonstrate a broad range of skill and experience across the roster. Tyrese Haliburton leads with a 90 overall rating, followed by Pascal Siakam at 87 and Andrew Nembhard at 83. Role players like Obi Toppin, Aaron Nesmith, Bennedict Mathurin, and TJ McConnell hover in the low 80s, while newer additions Isaiah Jackson, Jay Huff, and Jarace Walker are rated in the mid-70s.
“Indiana Pacers 2k26 Player Ratings: Tyrese Haliburton (90 OVR), Pascal Siakam (87 OVR), Andrew Nembhard (83 OVR), Obi Toppin (82 OVR), Aaron Nesmith (81 OVR), Bennedict Mathurin (81 OVR), TJ McConnell (81 OVR), Isaiah Jackson (76 OVR), Jay Huff (76 OVR), Jarace Walker (76 OVR).” — PacersEnjoyer, NBA Enthusiast
These ratings highlight the potential for growth among the Pacers’ younger players and underscore the importance of their development to replace the production lost from departing veterans.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Key Roster Moves on the Pacers’ Future
The departure of Myles Turner represents a significant turning point for the Indiana Pacers, forcing the front office to make decisive changes under challenging circumstances like Haliburton’s injury. By acquiring new talent and committing to young players, the team is aiming to remain competitive while restructuring for long-term success.
Pacers executives have openly acknowledged the challenges ahead, expressing a commitment to adapt and find cohesion. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the roster adjustments and veteran leadership shape the team‘s performance this season and beyond. The organization’s handling of this transition may well define the Pacers’ trajectory in the coming years, influencing both playoff potential and player development.