After logging only nine minutes in Friday’s matchup against the Bulls, Pacers forward Jarace Walker delivered a far more impactful showing on Monday, contributing 12 points and three rebounds across 18 minutes.
Head coach Rick Carlisle, who had been openly unhappy with Walker’s energy and overall approach in Chicago, expressed a very different tone following the performance against Sacramento.
As Carlisle put it, “I thought he was terrific tonight,” noting that Walker’s contributions went beyond the stat sheet.
“I don’t think his stats were super gaudy. Twelve points, we needed every single one of those points. He had a huge steal in transition. I don’t know how he pulls some of that stuff off. He just has amazing hands.”
Carlisle also framed Friday’s poor showing as a learning experience, emphasizing how young players must treat games like that as part of their growth curve.
“Nights like Chicago is feedback for young players,” he said, praising Walker’s reaction in the days that followed.
“His response in practice yesterday was terrific. I just liked his demeanor, his affect and his tone during the game. We need him.”
Pacers Notes: Haliburton, Nembhard, Mathurin, Walker, Thompson https://t.co/kf9LZLphyn pic.twitter.com/HOKq8mZtHW
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 9, 2025
