The Indiana Pacers are making significant adjustments to their roster as they navigate a series of injuries among key players. In a franchise first, the team has officially signed Mac McClung to a multiyear, non-guaranteed deal. This decision comes on the heels of the James Wiseman trade. He had just come back from an Achilles tear and was clearly still in the process of getting back to his old self.
The Pacers appear to be in a tight spot, too, with five players currently day-to-day with injuries. Associated Press Andrew Nembhard of Gonzaga has been nursing an injury, which has sidelined the standout guard. It has limited his impact and availability with Bennedict Mathurin and Obi Toppin. On top of all that, veteran guard TJ McConnell is currently rehabbing a hamstring injury. Tyrese Haliburton would be an All-Star this season if he weren’t sidelined by an Achilles tear. This absence adds another layer of drama to the team’s growing discord.
24-year old center James Wiseman had only recently returned to the court after missing most of the past two seasons with an Achilles’ injury. He was put into the starting lineup for last week’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies and played 20 minutes. Wiseman’s trade indicates the Pacers are moving towards a new direction. They’re working hard to improve their roster every day, with injury concerns continuing to plague them.
Most notably, Mac McClung took the basketball world by storm, winning the dunk contest in a historic three-peat championship. So far, he’s had little NBA experience, playing in just six games to this point. Prior to his time with the Pacers, McClung had spent time with the Orlando Magic. In 2017, he showcased his jaw-dropping athleticism and insane scoring ability there.
The Pacers know what they’re doing in signing McClung. It clears additional roster space and further improves organizational depth during this tumultuous stretch. As injuries continue to mount, the team will look to McClung to contribute in whatever capacity he can while the coaching staff navigates this challenging season.
Leave a Reply