Why Did Pacers Cut Reserve Center?

Brown played nine games for the Pacers, averaging 3.2 points and 1.4 rebounds. Amazingly, Brown only registered one block as a 7-2 center. Despite his skyscraper-like height and athletic potential, Brown failed to imprint in Rick Carlisle's decimated-by-injury rotation. 

The writing was on the wall when Carlisle only played Brown for 25 seconds on Wednesday against the Brooklyn Nets. 

Brown's underperformance pales in comparison to Tyrese Haliburton, who is the more prominent theme of the 2024-25 season. However, it's easier to cut Brown than to trade the struggling point guard. 

Before the Pacers signed Brown, the 7-2 center played four games for the Westchester Knicks in the G League. He averaged 18.5 points, 13.3 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 2.3 blocks.

Although his defensive stats alluded to a much-needed presence in the paint, Brown failed to make a mark in Indiana's depleted frontcourt. 

The Pacers will need another center to combat Joel Embiid as they face the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday.