Indiana Pacers announced on July 8, 2026 that they have inked two Exhibit‑10 contracts, adding G‑league guard Malik Brown and forward Jalen Hughes to the organization’s developmental pipeline. The moves come as the club tries to rebound from a recent slump.
What moves did the Pacers make?
The Pacers signed Brown, a 22‑year‑old who averaged 12.4 points and 3.2 assists per game in the NBA G‑League, to a one‑year Exhibit‑10 deal that includes a $50,000 bonus if he returns to the team after a stint in the G‑League. Hughes, a 24‑year‑old forward known for his 7.1 rebounds per game, received a similar contract with a $45,000 incentive. Both players will join the Indiana Mad Ants for the upcoming season, giving the Pacers a chance to evaluate their perimeter shooting and interior presence.
How do the signings fit the roster?
Head coach Rick Davis has been shuffling lineups after a 1‑4 stretch that left the Pacers 1W‑0D‑4L in their last five outings. The most recent defeat was a 121‑133 loss to the Detroit Pistons on April 12, 2026, where the Pacers surrendered 133 points, a franchise‑worst defensive showing this season. Adding Brown gives Davis a quick‑fire ball‑handler who can run pick‑and‑roll sets, while Hughes offers a rugged post option to protect the paint.
Both players are expected to split time between the Mad Ants and the main roster during training camp. If they impress, they could earn two‑way contracts, providing depth for the Pacers’ bench, which currently relies heavily on veteran Myles Turner and rookie guard Tyrese Miller.
What does the recent form mean for the future?
The Pacers’ recent form-1 win followed by four straight losses-has dropped them out of playoff contention. The loss to Detroit highlighted defensive lapses, with the team allowing a 48.5% field‑goal percentage and 38.2% from three‑point range. By integrating younger talent like Brown and Hughes, the front office hopes to inject energy and improve defensive rotations.
If the Exhibit‑10 signees develop quickly, they could fill the void left by recent injuries to forward Domantas Sabonis and guard Malcolm Brogdon. The Pacers are also eyeing a potential trade package involving a future second‑round pick, but for now the focus remains on internal development.
The Pacers’ next scheduled game is against the Chicago Bulls on July 15, 2026. A win could snap the four‑game losing streak and give the new signees a chance to showcase their skills on the NBA stage.
What comes next for Indiana Pacers?
The organization will monitor Brown’s and Hughes’ progress throughout the G‑League season, with weekly reports feeding into Davis’s coaching staff. Should either player earn a two‑way contract, they will be eligible for up to 45 NBA games, offering the Pacers a flexible roster option as they chase a playoff spot.
The Pacers remain committed to rebuilding around a core of Turner, Miller, and Sabonis, while leveraging young talent to close the gap with Eastern Conference rivals. The Exhibit‑10 deals represent a low‑risk, high‑reward strategy that could pay dividends if the players adapt quickly to the NBA’s pace and physicality.