Pacers Make Massive Roster Move as Offseason Rolls On

The Indiana Pacers face significant roster challenges entering the offseason, as they will be without star point guard Tyrese Haliburton for the entire upcoming season due to an Achilles tear sustained during the NBA Finals. Additionally, the team lost starting center Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks, creating vacancies at both starting guard and center positions.

To address these needs, the Pacers have utilized their remaining two-way contract on rookie guard Taelon Peter, the 54th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Peter, who averaged 13.7 points on 57.8% field goal shooting and 45.3% from three-point range at Liberty University, impressed during Summer League with his defensive capabilities and shooting ability.

To accommodate Peter's signing, the Pacers waived backup center Enrique Freeman. This decision reflects the team's current roster balance, as they already carry four centers but require additional guard depth following Haliburton's injury. Freeman had seen limited playing time last season after the Pacers acquired Thomas Bryant.

Peter is expected to spend most of the upcoming season developing with the Pacers' G League affiliate, the Noblesville Boom. While he requires further development before contributing at the NBA level, team president Kevin Pritchard values Peter's college experience and sees potential in him, especially for a team coming off an NBA Finals appearance.