Isaiah Jackson Heading into Pivotal Season?

Isaiah Jackson is nowhere near a household name, but his production warrants attention, especially regarding his future with the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers must move cautiously, as the CBA doesn't play kindly with repeat luxury tax dippers. Moreover, the Pacers aren't known for paying to the point of penalization. Does Jackson's production warrant a promotion or will he fall to restricted free agency?

Jackson turns 22 on Jan. 10 and is nowhere near his prime but showcased promising production during the 2023-24 season. The Pacers' backup big played 59 games, as he missed chunks due to hairline fractures in his finger, hamstring strain, and a concussion. However, when Jackson played, his defense eclipsed Indiana's starting center Myles Turner's efforts on the same side of the ball.

Utilizing Synergy Sports' database, Jackson's defense nets as a "very good" ranking as his presence forced opponents to 48.6 effective field goal percentage, whereas Turner finished with an "average" grade.

The Pacers have a crucial decision regarding contracts. Jackson is on an expiring rookie deal, with restricted free agency looming. The backup big will earn $4.4 million for the 2024-25 season and is eligible for an extension.

Coincidentally, Turner is also on an expiring deal. However, he'll enter restricted free agency with a $29.9 million cap hold.

If Jackson can stay healthy and maintain quality defensive numbers with more volume opportunities, perhaps the Pacers will keep him for the long haul. For the Pacers to keep Jackson, despite lacking a 3-point stroke, speaks to how important improving upon the NBA's sixth-worst defensive rating.

Related: Contract-Year Myles Turner to Exponentially Improve?

With Jackson and Turner in contract years, on separate career trajectories, the competition and production between the two will make for compelling viewing for Pacers fans.