What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The Indiana Pacers have waived forward Samson Johnson, as noted in the NBA's transaction log. Johnson, who signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Pacers on September 23, had been with the team since the end of June. The 6'10" forward played four years at UCONN, securing two national championships in 2023 and 2024. During his senior year, he averaged 7.5 points and 1.5 blocks per game. Although Johnson went undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, he participated in the Pacers' Summer League, scoring six points and recording two blocks over 16.1 minutes in two games. The waiver allows the Pacers to keep Johnson within their system, offering him a potential bonus of up to $83,500 if he remains with their G League affiliate, the Noblesville Bloom, for at least 60 days.
Why It's Important?
This move is significant for both the Pacers and Johnson. For the Pacers, it provides flexibility in managing their roster while retaining a promising player within their system. The Exhibit 10 contract allows the team to evaluate Johnson's development in the G League, potentially bringing him back if he shows significant improvement. For Johnson, this offers a pathway to continue his professional career and develop his skills in a competitive environment. The financial incentive tied to his G League tenure could motivate him to perform well, increasing his chances of a future NBA call-up.
What's Next?
Johnson is expected to join the Noblesville Bloom, where he will have the opportunity to showcase his abilities and work on his game. The Pacers will likely monitor his progress closely, considering him for future roster spots based on his performance. This move also highlights the strategic use of Exhibit 10 contracts by NBA teams to manage player development and maintain roster flexibility.
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