Pacers’ Jarace Walker ‘coming into his own’ in key growth area during third season

Indiana Pacers forward Jarace Walker was one of several players to receive an expanded role as the team battled injuries this season. The former lottery pick’s production has inspired hope that he can maintain a prominent role when the team pivots back to contention in 2026-27.

Walker posted 14 points, nine rebounds and eight assists during Thursday’s 123-94 win over the Brooklyn Nets. The victory marked his 21st game this season with four or more assists.

Assistant coach Lloyd Pierce, who coached Thursday’s game in place of Rick Carlisle, spoke about the 22-year-old’s growth as a playmaker.

“Positional size in our league is always something you seek out. And Jarace has great size as a three. And anytime we can put him in position, he has the ability to see the floor, but he also has the ability to pass over defenders and make plays,” Pierce said. “I think that’s something that he’s starting to come into his own with. The ability to pass over defenders in different situations, whether it’s in a pick-and-roll, whether it’s just a ball reversal, whether it’s seeing the high-low, or finding a skip. But he’s got great positional size, he’s got a great feel and eye for the game. So, he’s taking advantage of it, he’s doing a good job finding guys.”

Jarace Walker flashes growing skill set in new role with Pacers

Walker’s career-high usage has coincided with a career-high assist percentage of 14.2. He’s averaged 11.6 points while shooting 41.8 percent from the field and 37.0 percent from three on a career-high 8.6 attempts per 100 possessions.

It’s unclear what role Walker will fill in Indiana’s rotation next season. With Haliburton returning, the Pacers will aim to re-enter the championship conversation.

Pascal Siakam and Obi Toppin project to play heavy minutes at forward. Meanwhile, the Pacers currently have the second-best odds in May’s draft lottery, with top forward prospects such as A.J. Dybantsa and Cam Boozer viewed as potential selections.

Walker’s continued growth as a ball-handler and outside shooter could offer him greater positional versatility within Indiana’s rotation. The 2023 first-round pick is entering the final year of his contract at $8.5 million next season.

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