What Players Did Pacers Sign and Cut?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Lance Roberson | Last updated Jan 2, 2025 11:04 AM ET

On Tuesday, New Year's Day, the Indiana Pacers had time to reflect on their horrible 120-112 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. However, instead of sitting on their hands and waiting for the world to change, the Pacers front office made two under-the-radar roster moves.

Given their delicate situation, as the Pacers' 16-18 record places them eighth in the Eastern Conference, injuries and a so-so cupboard of assets limit them to what they can maneuver from a team-building aspect.

However, champions are won on the margins, and in light of their recent moves, they are as marginal as it gets.

Indiana waived Tristen Newton on Wednesday. Newton played eight minutes in five games. Although Newton never received a proper chance at earning a spot in Rick Carlisle's rotation, the Pacers can't afford to develop players. They are attempting to stay afloat in the Eastern Conference amid a disappointing start to the 2024-25 season.

According to Ryan Cassidy, co-host of the Big East Bar Room podcast and contributor at Road 2 The Garden, Newton asked to be waived.

Indiana selected Newton with the 49th overall pick, as they received a prospect with two NCAA championships.

However, life moves forward, with the Pacers wasting no time signing RayJ Dennis to a two-way contract, per HoopsHype Michael Scotto's reporting. Dennis last played for the G League's San Diego Clippers, averaging 16.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 3.5 rebounds.

Although neither move will catapult the Pacers into contention, Dennis could provide spot minutes in Carlisle's rotation, given their injury issues.

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

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