How is Jarace Walker Going to Keep Improving?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Dec 18, 2024 12:06 PM ET

After missing the majority of his lackluster rookie season, Indiana Pacers forward Jarace Walker was somewhat written off. The eighth overall pick has not been as disappointing as Scoot Henderson, but in a class headlined by Victor Wembanyama, Brandon Miller, and Amen Thompson, Walker was an afterthought by the end of his first season.

This year, as the Pacers battle injuries, Walker has stepped up in a big way. He is still not a box-score stuffer, averaging only 5.6 points and 3.7 rebounds, but he's been playing winning basketball, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

With centers James Wiseman and Isaiah Jackson out for the season, Obi Toppin has slotted into the backup center spot and Walker has been the power forward, although he has had to play a larger role, highlighted by his defensive assignments.

"You can just see how much more comfortable he is," praised veteran TJ McConnell. "The game's starting to slow down, but I think what he's done defensively for us just continuing to get better on that end and take a lot of pride and he's guarding a lot of the team's best players and it doesn't matter the size. He's accepting the challenge."

Last year, Walker looked awkward and outpaced in the NBA. In college at Houston, he could use his imposing frame and strength to take control of the game, but adjusting to the pace and size of the NBA has been a process.

To his credit, he is taking the necessary steps.

"I'm less tentative, just going out there, just trying to play my game," explained Walker. "I'm still figuring it out. There's a lot of ups and downs that come with the season, but over time, I'm definitely learning a lot."

Walker cited that he has had a lot of "ups and downs" this season, but being able to play his natural position with the recent addition to Thomas Bryant has been a breath of fresh air.

"Implementing Thomas as a true five, knowing we're getting out of that position, so everybody kind of shifts back down. Obi will be back to the four of me at the three, obviously. Just having that and just knowing that we're playing in our regular positions is a plus for sure"

With Walker on the wing, the career 38.9 percent 3-point shooter should be able to play a more natural role on offense, and on defense, he can continue to be the point-of-attack defender the Pacers deperatly need.

Unlike Bennedict Mathurin, Walker hasn't been an incredibly positive player from day one, but the blueprint is certainly in place for him to have a successful career.

Check out the All Pacers homepage for more news, analysis, and must-read articles.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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