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Indiana Pacers Current Starting Lineup And Bench: Trying To Prove 2024 ECF Run Wasn't A Fluke

By Fran Leiva,

5 hours ago

The Indiana Pacers have had a transformative offseason, making some big moves to bolster their roster for the 2024-25 NBA season after a Conference Finals run. The headline transaction was re-signing Pascal Siakam to a max deal , ensuring they retain their All-Star forward. They also made smart moves in free agency and trades, including picking up key players like James Wiseman and signing Andrew Nembhard and Obi Toppin to long-term deals. With these additions, the Pacers aim to build on their Eastern Conference Finals appearance and make a deeper playoff run. Here's a look at the Pacers' current starting lineup and bench for the upcoming season.

Point Guards

Tyrese Haliburton , TJ McConnell

Tyrese Haliburton is the engine of the Pacers' offense. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 20.1 points, 10.9 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game, earning his second All-Star selection. Haliburton's elite playmaking and scoring ability make him a dynamic threat on the court. With the addition of Pascal Siakam, he has even more weapons to work with, and the expectations for him are sky-high as he aims to lead the Pacers deep into the playoffs once again.

TJ McConnell remains a crucial part of the Pacers' backcourt rotation. Known for his relentless defense and high basketball IQ, McConnell averaged 10.3 points, 5.5 assists, and 1.0 steals per game last season. His hustle and veteran presence provide stability and energy off the bench, making him an invaluable asset for the team. As the primary backup to Haliburton, McConnell's role will be to maintain the team's tempo and defensive intensity when the starters rest.

Shooting Guards

Andrew Nembhard , Ben Sheppard , Kendall Brown

Andrew Nembhard stepped up significantly in the 2023-24 season, proving himself as a versatile and reliable option for the Pacers. He averaged 9.2 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 49.8% from the field and 35.7% from three-point range over 68 games. Nembhard's ability to contribute on both ends of the floor makes him an essential piece for the Pacers' backcourt, and his continued development is expected to play a crucial role in the team's success this season.

Ben Sheppard, entering his second season, has shown promise as a three-and-D player. Though his minutes were limited last year, his potential to stretch the floor and play solid perimeter defense could earn him a more substantial role. Sheppard’s work ethic and performance in the Summer League have been encouraging, suggesting he might become a key rotational player.

Kendall Brown, a young and athletic guard, provides depth and energy off the bench. Known for his defensive prowess and slashing ability, Brown has the potential to impact games with his hustle and versatility. While still developing his offensive game, his athleticism and defensive skills make him a valuable asset for the Pacers' second unit.

Small Forwards

Bennedict Mathurin , Aaron Nesmith , Johnny Furphy

Bennedict Mathurin has been a key player for the Pacers, showing significant promise in his role. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 14.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 44.6% from the field and 37.4% from beyond the arc. Unfortunately, Mathurin’s season was cut short due to an ankle injury, which caused him to miss the latter part of the season and the playoffs. Despite the setback, he is expected to make a full recovery and return stronger for the 2024-25 season, where he will look to build on his impressive performances and continue his development as a versatile scorer and defender.

Aaron Nesmith emerged as a reliable option for the Pacers, contributing 12.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game last season. Known for his efficiency, Nesmith shot 49.6% from the field and 41.9% from three-point range. His ability to stretch the floor and play solid defense made him a valuable player in Indiana's rotation, and he’s expected to continue providing impactful minutes.

Johnny Furphy, a promising young talent, was selected by the Pacers in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Hailing from Australia, Furphy is known for his athleticism and potential as a two-way player. Although he is still developing his skills, the Pacers see significant potential in Furphy’s defensive versatility and offensive upside. He is expected to grow into a more substantial role as he gains experience and adjusts to the pace of the NBA game.

Power Forwards

Pascal Siakam , Obi Toppin , Jarace Walker

Pascal Siakam has solidified himself as a key player for the Pacers since joining the team. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 21.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. His efficiency was notable, shooting 53.6% from the field and 34.6% from three-point range. Siakam's presence as a versatile scorer and playmaker is crucial for the Pacers' success, especially as they look to make a deeper playoff run this season.

Obi Toppin has secured his future with the Pacers by signing a four-year, $60 million contract extension. In the 2023-24 season, Toppin averaged 10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, with career-high shooting percentages of 57.3% from the field and 40.3% from three. Toppin's athleticism and energy make him an essential part of Indiana's rotation, and his continued growth is expected to play a significant role in the team's success.

Jarace Walker, selected in the 2023 NBA Draft, is an exciting young talent for Indiana. Known for his defensive prowess and versatility, Walker has the potential to be a game-changer on both ends of the court. His development will be crucial for the Pacers as they integrate him into their rotation and leverage his skills to complement the more established players like Siakam and Toppin.

Centers

Myles Turner , James Wiseman , Isaiah Jackson

Myles Turner remains a cornerstone for the Pacers' frontcourt. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 17.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 52.4% from the field and 35.8% from three-point range. His defensive prowess and ability to stretch the floor make him a critical asset for Indiana, anchoring their defense and providing scoring from the center position.

James Wiseman joined the Pacers in the 2024 offseason, signing a two-year contract as a free agent after being released by the Detroit Pistons. Wiseman, the second overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, has had a challenging start to his NBA career but brings significant potential with his size and athleticism. The Pacers are hopeful that a change of scenery will help Wiseman realize his potential as a rim protector and interior presence.

Isaiah Jackson rounds out the Pacers' center rotation. Jackson's athleticism and shot-blocking ability offer a dynamic presence off the bench. Though still developing his offensive game, his energy and defensive skills provide valuable minutes, especially in high-tempo situations.

These three players form a solid trio, each bringing unique skills to the Pacers' frontcourt, making them a formidable team in the paint for the upcoming season.

Can The Pacers Get Back To The Conference Finals?

The Indiana Pacers had an impressive run to the Eastern Conference Finals last season, but replicating that success in 2024-25 will be a tough task. They benefited significantly from key injuries to their opponents, which played a major role in their deep playoff run.

In the first round against the Milwaukee Bucks, the Pacers capitalized on Giannis Antetokounmpo's absence due to injury. This was a huge blow to the Bucks, allowing the Pacers to advance more easily than expected. Similarly, the absence of Damian Lillard in the latter stages of the series further weakened Milwaukee's roster and made the Pacers' path easier.

During the second round, the New York Knicks faced a slew of injuries. Jalen Brunson dealt with a fractured left hand in Game 7, and Julius Randle was sidelined with a shoulder injury that required surgery. Additionally, the Knicks missed OG Anunoby and Josh Hart at crucial moments, severely impacting their performance.

When the Pacers finally faced the Boston Celtics in the Conference Finals, they were outmatched. The Celtics, at full strength, swept the Pacers convincingly, highlighting the gap between Indiana and the elite teams in the East. The series served as a stark reminder of the areas where the Pacers need to improve.

To get back to the Conference Finals, the Pacers will need several things to go right. The team must stay healthy and develop depth to withstand the rigors of the playoffs. Key additions like Pascal Siakam and the growth of players like Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin are crucial. Consistency is key. Siakam and Turner need to deliver nightly, and young players must step up regularly. Last season’s success should not lead to complacency. The Pacers must work even harder and recognize the fortunate circumstances that helped them advance. Learning from their experience against the Celtics can drive the team to improve. Competing at the highest level requires resilience and growth.

While the Pacers have made significant improvements and have a promising roster, the path to the Conference Finals is fraught with challenges. Other Eastern Conference teams are also getting stronger, and the Pacers will need to prove that they can compete with the best. It will be difficult, but with the right mindset and a bit of luck, they could make another deep playoff run.