Pacers Sign Rookie Kam Jones to Four-Year, $8.7M Deal

The Indiana Pacers have signed rookie Kam Jones, their 38th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, to a unique four-year standard contract worth up to $8.7 million, aiming to bolster their backcourt depth following Tyrese Haliburton's Achilles injury. Jones, a versatile 6-4 combo guard from Marquette, impressed with career-high averages in scoring, assists, rebounds, and steals, and is expected to compete for significant playing time alongside Andrew Nembhard and T.J. McConnell. The Pacers also re-signed guard Quenton Jackson to a two-way contract after his impactful performances during the previous season. Meanwhile, the NBA offseason sees Atlanta making aggressive moves by acquiring Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard, aiming to contend amid Eastern Conference injuries, while New Orleans and Orlando explore trades and signings to address their roster needs. Additionally, NBA center Jonas Valanciunas remains non-committal about his future following his medical visits with Panathinaikos Athens and trade to the Denver Nuggets. Insights into player leadership styles were shared, highlighting Kobe Bryant's intense winning mentality compared to Kyrie Irving's developmental phase as a team leader.