Jahlil Okafor Is Again within the NBA After Signing a 10-Day Deal With Pacers

Veteran middle Jahlil Okafor is making his return to the NBA, signing a 10-day contract with the Indiana Pacers. He was chosen because the third general choose by the Philadelphia 76ears within the 2015 NBA draft.

The 6-foot-10 center-forward final performed for the Detroit Pistons, showing in 27 video games that season. That was 4 years in the past, which was a very long time since we noticed him in motion.

Okafor’s Strong G League Performance Earns Him an Opportunity

Before incomes his NBA call-up, Okafor was showcasing his abilities with the Pacers’ G League affiliate, the Indiana Mad Ants. In 30 video games throughout the Tip-Off Tournament and common season, the 29-year-old massive man averaged a formidable 18.6 factors and 9.1 rebounds per recreation, in keeping with Hoops Rumors. His dominance within the developmental league even earned him a variety for the 2025 Up Next occasion on the NBA All-Star weekend.

Throughout his profession, he has had stints with the Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets, New Orleans Pelicans, and Pistons, averaging 10.4 factors and 4.7 rebounds in 19.5 minutes per recreation.

The Pacers initially introduced Okafor into coaching camp on an Exhibit 10 contract earlier than waiving him, resulting in his G League task. Over the previous few years, he has additionally performed abroad in China, Spain, and Puerto Rico, persevering with to discover his capabilities.

What This Means for Indiana’s Roster

With Okafor’s 10-day contract formally signed, he’s set to earn $150,179 and can be obtainable for Indiana Pacers’ subsequent three video games main into the All-Star break.

Meanwhile, ESPN stories that Alex Len has formally signed the take care of the Los Angeles Lakers. He won’t be a greater Anthony Davis alternative, however he has the firepower to defend the paint. This will give LeBron and Luka more room to attain on the ground.

Can Okafor Prove His Worth This Time?

Started as a promising prospect middle, Okafor has so many skillsets in his arsenal. His offensive capacity to assault the paint was spectacular, however defensive limitations bought in his approach.

His playstyle was fairly conventional as a back-to-basket man and mid-range pictures. However, it didn’t evolve and adapt to the trendy meta of outdoor taking pictures. If he needs to safe a everlasting NBA function, he would wish to observe taking pictures threes.

If he performs properly throughout this stint, the Pacers—or one other crew—may contemplate extending his keep. For now, Okafor has a short however vital window to point out that he can nonetheless contribute on the highest stage.