The Indiana Pacers have re-signed promising young center Isaiah Jackson, reinforcing their roster heading into next season. The Pacers were short, especially after Myles Turner moved to the Milwaukee Bucks recently.
Retaining Isaiah Jackson was crucial for the Pacers given his age, upside, and development trajectory. The coaching staff and front office were reportedly encouraged by Jackson’s progress and return from a lengthy injury absence.
Isaiah Jackson has agreed to a three-year deal worth a $21 million deal that would fetch him an average salary of $7 million per year. This move by the Pacers now locks in a young member of their core. The Pacers selected Jackson 22nd overall in the 2021 NBA Draft, viewing him as a long-term front court piece.
Previously, Jackson was on a four-year rookie deal worth $12.1 million, earning an average of $3 million annually. The 23-year-old averaged 7.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.0 assists with a field goal percentage of 60.9 last season.
However, the youngster played only seven games last season. He suffered a torn Achilles in early November and has since been out of action. The Indiana Pacers are excited about his return and see him as a major rotation piece in the front court.
Kevin Pritchard Hints More Moves Ahead
The Indiana Pacers’ President Kevin Pritchard has been happy with Isaiah Jackson’s growth trajectory. He reflected the former Kentucky’s impact, especially against the New York Knicks in the playoffs.
Kevin Pritchard said, “When I think about Isaiah and what he did in the playoffs, not this year but the previous year, he had big moments against New York. I think we’ve got some real upside guys.”
On Pacers further strategy in the off season, Kevin said, “We’re going to have three or four really good centers that are going to come in and compete for a starting position. We’ve always done well when there’s a lot of competition at a position.”
From the words of Kevin Pritchard, it looks like the Pacers are not done just yet after re-signing Isaiah Jackson. They are actively looking to strengthen their roster, especially on the front court.
