NBA rosters are always in flux, with changes ranging from blockbuster trades to subtle lineup tweaks, all aimed at improving the team. Middle and lower-tier teams are typically more active in pursuing changes, as they have more ground to makeup, but even top contenders look for small advantages. Take the Indiana Pacers, for example.
After exceeding expectations last season by reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in ten years, the Pacers are keeping their core intact but have still made some off-season adjustments. One notable move was signing free agent James Wiseman, a former second-overall pick who has played for the Golden State Warriors and Detroit Pistons. Despite his injury history, Wiseman is seen as a valuable addition when healthy, and the Pacers hope he’ll bolster their frontcourt depth.
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If Wiseman stays healthy, he’ll likely see significant playing time, which could reduce minutes for Isaiah Jackson, another center on the roster.
Jackson is known for his high energy, rim protection, and paint presence, earning him a role under coach Rick Carlisle. He’s embraced his job as a player who doesn’t demand the ball but instead scores through pick-and-rolls, drop passes, and rim runs. Last season, Jackson secured the backup center role over Jalen Smith, especially during the playoffs. However, Smith’s departure to the Chicago Bulls left Jackson as the clear second option behind Myles Turner — until the Pacers decided to address their rebounding woes.
Indiana struggled on the boards last season, ranking 28th in the league with just 41.5 rebounds per game. Wiseman, standing 6’11 with a 7’6 wingspan, brings a physical presence that could help. By contrast, Jackson, though energetic, stands at 6’9 and averaged fewer rebounds than Wiseman last season. Wiseman’s size and rebounding prowess (5.3 boards per game in 17.3 minutes last season) make him a natural fit to shore up Indiana’s frontcourt.
Offensively, Wiseman offers more versatility than Jackson. He can finish strong in pick-and-roll situations, hit jumpers when needed, and even create his own shot near the basket. Despite coming off the bench, Wiseman is an additional offensive weapon for Carlisle, with the potential to make a significant impact as the Pacers aim to build on last year’s success.
