Following massive playoff performances that led them to the NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers arguably won the 2025 NBA Draft. Like the Los Angeles Lakers, the Pacers didn’t have a draft pick in the first round of the draft. However, they were able to obtain two talented guards in Kam Jones and Taelon Peter, both of whom fit into their exciting offense. Jones is a six-foot-four guard from Marquette who possesses a dynamic offensive skill set. As for Peter, he is a six-foot-four guard from Liberty University who has great ability as a three-point sharpshooter.
Both rookies certainly flashed their talent during Summer League, assisting the Pacers in winning several games there. Undoubtedly, their skills and talent can be a major factor for the Pacers as they navigate uncertain waters after Tyrese Haliburton‘s injury. Let’s dive into three reasons why the Indiana Pacers won the 2025 NBA Draft.
3 Reasons Why The Indiana Pacers Won The 2025 NBA Draft
#1: High-Level Shooting
One of the many positives of the Pacers’ rookies is that both can provide great shooting for Indiana. While Jones only shot 31.1% from three this past season, he was able to knock down triples at 39.2%, 36%, and 40.6% from beyond the arc in the past three seasons. During that time, Jones served in a more off-ball role, especially excelling as a catch-and-shoot player. As for Peter, he shot an extremely high 45.3% from three on a solid 4.9 attempts per game. He has shown the ability to knock down three-point shots in a variety of ways, like spot-up or dribble handoffs. Unquestionably, both rookies and their three-point shooting abilities fit into Indiana’s offensive system.
#2: Dynamic Shot-Creation
Another important reason why the Pacers won the draft is the dynamic shot-creation that the rookies can provide. Jones has proven to be a crafty guard who knows how to leverage his skills to create offense. He utilizes his craft, ball-handling, and various other moves to break down defenses and open up the floor. Furthermore, Jones possesses excellent footwork that allows him to get an open shot or free throws. Not only can Jones be effective as a shot-creator in isolation, but he also uses screens well. He can snake his way through the pick-and-roll to finish at the basket or use a floater to score. Additionally, Jones knows how to use his threat as a three-point shooter to force defenders to close out harder on him. That gives him plenty of opportunities to drive into the lane and create offense.
#3: Solid Playmaking
In addition to the high-level shooting and dynamic shot-creation, playmaking can be added to the many positives of this rookie class. Specifically, Jones had developed this past season as a playmaker for Marquette. He was their primary offensive option, and the offense ran essentially through him. Despite the new role, Jones excelled as the primary offensive initiator, having an assist rate of 38.1% and a turnover rate of 9.6%. Considering the adjustment to a new role, Jones has significantly improved as a playmaker. On the court, Jones has great court vision and passing skills. Given his scoring talent, he can draw the attention of defenders, getting his teammates open looks. He will be an excellent secondary creator for the Pacers and their offensive system.
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