Indiana Pacers Re-Sign Isaiah Jackson on Three-Year, $21M Deal Following Turner’s Exit
In the wake of Myles Turner’s unexpected departure to the Milwaukee Bucks, the Indiana Pacers have wasted no time shoring up their frontcourt. On Monday morning, the team announced it has re-signed 22-year-old forward-center Isaiah Jackson to a three-year, $21 million contract, solidifying their commitment to youth development and interior strength.
The move comes just days after Turner inked a four-year, $108.9 million deal with Milwaukee, ending a decade-long tenure in Indiana. Turner’s exit leaves a leadership and defensive void in the Pacers’ paint—a void the organization hopes Jackson can begin to fill.
“Isaiah has shown tremendous growth and resilience over the past few seasons,” Pacers President Kevin Pritchard said in a press statement. “With his athleticism, rebounding instincts, and commitment to improving, we believe he’s ready for a much larger role.”
Jackson, originally drafted 22nd overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2021 before being traded to Indiana, has quietly become a key piece in the Pacers’ rotation. He averaged 8.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game during the 2024–25 season, despite battling through a partial Achilles strain that limited his availability. Reports suggest Jackson is recovering well and is expected to be fully healthy by the start of training camp.
“This team believed in me when I came into the league, and I’m ready to give everything back,” Jackson said Monday during a media call. “Myles was a mentor, no doubt. Now it’s time to step up and build something new with the guys we’ve got.”
With franchise point guard Tyrese Haliburton ruled out for the 2025–26 season due to an Achilles tear suffered during the NBA Finals, the Pacers are clearly entering a transitional phase. The front office has emphasized player development and continuity, and Jackson’s re-signing aligns with that vision.
Jackson is expected to compete for the starting center spot alongside Jalen Smith and Oscar Tshiebwe, as head coach Rick Carlisle looks to reshape the team’s interior identity. While Jackson may not replace Turner’s defensive presence immediately, his versatility and energy are seen as assets in Indiana’s evolving system.
“This is a vote of confidence,” Jackson said. “I’ve been working. I’ve been waiting. And now I’m ready.”
The Pacers are scheduled to open training camp in September. With their roster still in flux and tensions reportedly lingering in the locker room following recent departures, all eyes will be on how Jackson—and the team as a whole—responds to the challenge ahead.
