Indiana Pacers beat the Orlando Magic 118-111, getting their fourth win of the 2024-25 season and moving their record to 4-4. Displaying a balanced offensive performance, Indiana outperformed the Magic and shot 48 percent from the field and 34 percent from three-point range. This win brings the Pacers back to .500 and highlights the team’s promising alignment. Here are the top three takeaways from this performance.

1. Jarace Walker’s Debut Game

Forward Jarace Walker had arguably his best game yet as a Pacer. The former lottery pick in the 2023 NBA Draft has seen increased playing time this week, and his confidence on the court is clearly evident. Against Orlando, Walker came off the bench to score 17 points on a perfect 7-of-7 shooting, adding six rebounds, two steals and a block. His impact on both ends of the court gave Indiana an extra boost, as evidenced by his team-high +8 plus/minus rating. Walker, the eighth overall pick from the University of Houston, was acquired from the Wizards on draft night in exchange for Bilal Coulibaly and two second-round draft picks. His performance on Wednesday showed why the Pacers have so much faith in him.

2. Bank Comes to Life

Walker wasn’t the only standout on Indiana’s bench. The reserves played a key role in keeping the offense going, with contributions from multiple players. Obi Toppin added four points on 2-of-3 shooting in 17 minutes of action, giving the Pacers valuable minutes and energy. Veteran guard TJ McConnell scored 15 points on a perfect 7-of-7 shooting in 17 minutes. Rookie Ben Sheppard scored six points on 2-for-3 shooting in 11 minutes. Collectively, Indiana’s bench was efficient and effective, outperforming Orlando’s reserves despite only going four deep.

3. Return to 0.500 and Build Momentum

After a slow 1-3 start, the Pacers have won three of their last four games, thanks in part to their improved ball movement and increased speed. The key to this comeback was the resurgence of All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton. Haliburton, who suffered a back injury at the start of the season, looked closer to his usual form, setting the tempo and facilitating the offense as Indiana picked up the pace. Aiming to gain consistency, the Pacers will try to continue this momentum on the road against the Charlotte Hornets on Friday.

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