Pacers' baffling decision before free agency makes a lot more sense now

The Indiana Pacers extended a qualifying offer to Isaiah Jackson just before free agency, making him a restricted free agent. This move initially seemed surprising given Jackson's recent Achilles injury and backup role, but gained clarity following Myles Turner's unexpected departure to the Milwaukee Bucks.

With Turner gone, the Pacers face significant decisions regarding their center position. Jackson is now positioned as a likely returnee for the upcoming season. While he isn't expected to replace Turner as the starter, retaining him provides crucial stability during the team's transition period.

The Pacers weighed several factors in letting Turner leave. He had been integral to their system and success, but his poor NBA Finals performance and the financial burden of re-signing him during a non-competitive season made retention impractical. Turner's unique combination of floor-stretching and rim-protecting skills will be difficult to replace, creating an opportunity for Indiana to experiment with alternative solutions at center.

Jackson, a 23-year-old known for his athleticism and energy, presents intriguing potential despite injury concerns. His familiarity with the Pacers' system and possible expanded role could lead to a breakout season. The team's future center strategy remains fluid, with Jackson potentially developing into a long-term option if he demonstrates growth during this transition year.