James Wiseman joins the Indiana Pacers after stints with the Golden State Warriors and Detroit Pistons, and the Pacers organization has confidence in his potential. However, he is currently dealing with a groin injury and will likely be limited at the start of training camp, as noted by head coach Rick Carlisle.
“He has a groin issue that arose a couple of weeks ago, and we’re working to help him recover,” Carlisle explained. “It should clear up fairly quickly, and then we’ll focus on getting him up to speed.”
Carlisle believes Wiseman still has significant potential as the team searches for a third center who can contribute. “In my opinion, he’s a promising young talent,” Carlisle said. “He’s still very young, and we need to move past his draft position and any previous challenges. He had a strong summer with our staff and teammates, and I think our fans will really like him.”
Carlisle recognizes that Wiseman will require development and time to adjust to the Pacers’ system. He joins fellow members of the 2020 draft class, including Tyrese Haliburton, Aaron Nesmith, and Obi Toppin, who have found success after leaving their original teams, filling the gap left by Jalen Smith, who signed with the Bulls.
“We need to simplify our system for him since it’s new to him,” Carlisle noted. “Detroit didn’t play at the same tempo we do, but we believe he can adapt. With Jalen Smith’s departure, we needed a young center with upside to bolster our depth.”
Pacers Vice President of Basketball Operations Ted Wu highlighted that financial constraints limited their options for a third center, making Wiseman’s signing—at a veteran minimum—a welcome opportunity.
With several player extensions this offseason, the Pacers are just under the luxury tax threshold, making it essential to utilize their resources wisely for future gains. Wiseman signed a two-year deal with a team option for the second year, representing a low-risk chance to see if they can unlock the talent of a former lottery pick.
Myles Turner has taken Wiseman under his wing, expressing his support and belief in his potential. Turner hosted Wiseman and teammate Isaiah Jackson in Dallas before the team’s mini-camp.
“I’ve always been a fan of James,” Turner said during Media Day. “He just needs the right opportunity. I believe once he gets that chance, he’ll seize it.”
Jackson showed promise in the playoffs last season, stepping into a consistent backup role. Wiseman may not see significant playing time initially, especially if his groin issue persists.
“Looking at our roster, it’s clear we have at least 11 players who deserve minutes, and that’s not always feasible,” Carlisle said. “I want to see who can consistently bring energy and physicality every day, regardless of their playing time. We’ll see how it all shakes out.”
Currently, Wiseman may be on the outside looking in, particularly if his injury lingers. Carlisle mentioned the need for more size on the roster, a characteristic Wiseman possesses as the tallest player at seven feet.
“When you stand next to him, you can’t believe how big he is,” Carlisle said. “He’s massive with an impressive wingspan.”
Last season with Detroit, Wiseman averaged 7.1 points and 5.3 rebounds in 17 minutes per game.
