Jahlil Okafor Returns to NBA with Pacers’ 10-Day Contract

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Former NBA lottery pick Jahlil Okafor is set to sign a 10-day contract with the Indiana Pacers, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes. After nearly four years away from the league, Okafor’s comeback highlights the persistence and resilience of the 29-year-old player who will join the Pacers as they continue their push in the Eastern Conference.

Okafor, originally selected as the No. 3 overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2015 NBA Draft, last played in the NBA during the 2020-21 season with the Detroit Pistons. That season, he averaged 5.4 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in 27 appearances. Since then, he has faced challenges that hindered his career trajectory, including injuries and decreased playing time.

During his time with the 76ers, Okafor averaged 17.5 points and 7.0 rebounds in his rookie year, showcasing his potential as one of the league’s promising talents. Despite this, he faced tough competition within the Sixers’ roster, particularly from teammate Joel Embiid, which led to his trade to the Brooklyn Nets midway through his third season.

Following his stint with the Nets, Okafor had brief tenures with the New Orleans Pelicans and the Pistons, where he struggled to regain his form. Most recently, he has been playing for the Pacers’ G-League affiliate, the Indiana Mad Ants, where he averaged an impressive 18.6 points and 9.0 rebounds per game.

“Priority number one is to get back to the NBA. I’m one of the best low post scorers to this day,” Okafor said in a statement regarding his quest to return to the league.

The Pacers are currently situated fourth in the Eastern Conference with a record of 29-22. Their recent performance has included seven wins in their last ten games, positioning them as strong contenders in the playoff race. Okafor’s addition to the roster comes as the team prepares for an upcoming matchup against the New York Knicks.

According to Chris Haynes, the move raises questions about the future of center Alex Len, who had been expected to fill an open roster spot. The management’s decision to sign Okafor could indicate Len may be exploring other opportunities. Okafor is expected to play a significant role in the Pacers’ strategy moving forward.

As the Indiana Pacers gear up for their game on Tuesday night, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Okafor’s experience and skill set influence the team dynamics and potentially pave the way for his return to regular minutes in the NBA.