James Johnson still wants to play, but Pacers roster is tight: 'Painful to think of our team without him'

James Johnson Jr. aims to return for a 17th NBA season, and while the Indiana Pacers wish to retain him, they currently lack an available roster spot to accommodate him. Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan confirmed on the "Setting the Pace" podcast that he spoke with the 38-year-old last week, and Johnson expressed his desire to continue playing.

Buchanan stated the organization will explore options to facilitate Johnson's return but emphasized the challenge of doing so with all 15 standard contracts filled. Despite playing only 12 games last season and averaging 0.7 points per game, Johnson is lauded as a vital leadership figure within the team.

Buchanan praised Johnson's off-court impact, noting he "embraced his role" and became "like a family member" to players, staff, and their families. However, Tyrese Haliburton's injury has complicated roster planning, making Johnson's return difficult under current constraints.

Historically, the Pacers have waived Johnson to create trade flexibility but re-signed him later, suggesting potential pathways for his return mid-season if an opening arises. Buchanan acknowledged the emotional difficulty of potentially losing Johnson, calling it "painful" but admitting the roster situation may necessitate it—while leaving room for possible changes.