Pacers Sign Mac McClung to Multiyear Deal, Waive James Wiseman

The Indiana Pacers have signed guard Mac McClung to a multiyear contract, marking his first standard NBA deal after spending time in camps and on two-way contracts since 2021. McClung, best known for his victory as the first-ever three-time champion in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, joins the Pacers after a brief stint with the Orlando Magic. The signing comes at a critical time for the Pacers, who are dealing with multiple injuries to key players in their backcourt and wing positions.

McClung has played in six NBA games to date and will sign a nonguaranteed multiyear contract, which allows the Pacers flexibility as they navigate their injury-plagued roster. In order to make room for McClung, the Pacers will waive former No. 2 overall pick James Wiseman. The decision to release Wiseman, who was recovering from an Achilles injury, has raised questions given his potential, but Indiana’s current needs in the backcourt appear to have led them to this move.

Wiseman’s release marks a significant shift in the Pacers’ roster management, as the 24-year-old center had just returned to action after missing a large part of the previous season due to an Achilles injury. This move also reflects the team’s focus on securing depth at the guard position with the injuries to several of their key backcourt players.

With McClung now officially signed, the Pacers hope his energy and scoring ability can provide a boost during a challenging stretch of injuries.

1. McClung’s Journey to the NBA

Mac McClung’s rise to a standard NBA contract is a story of persistence and highlight-reel moments. Known for his athleticism and showmanship in the Dunk Contest, McClung became a fan favorite for his explosive performances, but his NBA career has been marked by time spent in training camps and on two-way deals. After going undrafted in 2021, McClung made his way through the league with a series of brief stints, first with the Los Angeles Lakers and then the Chicago Bulls, before ultimately landing with the Orlando Magic. Despite limited NBA appearances, McClung has impressed with his scoring ability and high-flying dunks, gaining a reputation as one of the most electrifying athletes not regularly on an NBA roster. This new deal with the Pacers represents a major opportunity for McClung, who has demonstrated the talent to make an impact, even if his time in the NBA has been sporadic. The Pacers’ decision to sign McClung to a multiyear contract reflects their confidence in his potential to contribute, especially given the team’s injury issues. McClung’s scoring and playmaking abilities, particularly in transition, offer a skill set that could help the Pacers in their current situation, even if he may not be a primary playmaker or starter. While McClung is not yet a household name, this contract gives him the chance to prove himself as a reliable NBA player. His athleticism, combined with his experience in various developmental roles, will allow him to bring an exciting energy to the Pacers.

2. Pacers’ Injuries Prompt Roster Shakeup

The Pacers’ decision to sign McClung comes at a time when the team is dealing with a series of significant injuries. Several key players in the backcourt and on the wings are listed as day-to-day, leaving the team thin on depth and in need of reinforcements. Among those injured are Andrew Nembhard, Bennedict Mathurin, and Obi Toppin, all of whom are key contributors for Indiana. Additionally, the Pacers have had to deal with injuries to their point guard position. T.J. McConnell, who is recovering from a hamstring injury suffered before the season, has yet to play, adding further strain to the team’s backcourt depth. Tyrese Haliburton, a cornerstone of the team, is also sidelined for the season after suffering an Achilles tear. These injuries have left the Pacers without some of their most important playmakers, forcing the front office to explore roster adjustments. McClung’s signing could provide the Pacers with much-needed relief, as his scoring and speed could help fill some of the gaps in the backcourt. With McClung’s ability to play both on and off the ball, he could bring some flexibility to Indiana’s lineup, even as the team continues to deal with significant injuries. The signing also reflects the Pacers’ willingness to take a chance on McClung’s potential, hoping that his energy and dynamic play can help stabilize the team during a tough stretch.

3. Waiving Wiseman: A Tough Call

The Pacers’ decision to waive James Wiseman to create room for McClung is a noteworthy move, especially given Wiseman’s pedigree as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Wiseman, who was recovering from an Achilles tear, had just returned to action and started in the team’s recent loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. However, the decision to release Wiseman suggests that the Pacers feel they need to prioritize their backcourt depth rather than maintain Wiseman’s potential as a center, especially as the team faces significant injuries to their guards. Wiseman, at just 24 years old, has shown flashes of promise during his limited appearances, but his recovery from injury and the Pacers’ current needs seem to have influenced the decision. With the team’s backcourt depth already depleted, McClung’s signing offers a more immediate solution, particularly given his ability to score and provide energy off the bench. The decision to waive Wiseman signals a shift in the Pacers’ roster strategy. Although Wiseman’s potential is still significant, the team is currently focused on maintaining its competitiveness in the short term, particularly as they work to manage injuries to several key players. This move highlights the tough choices faced by the Pacers’ front office, balancing long-term potential with immediate roster needs. The Pacers will now look to integrate McClung into their lineup, while Wiseman will need to find a new team to continue his development and regain his form.