Story perspectives

Pacers Delay Braden Smith Signing, Threaten Ethan Thompson Spot

7/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Indiana Pacers have not signed draft pick Braden Smith, risking guard Ethan Thompson’s two-way contract.
GM Chad Buchanan says the team must balance its roster spot, three two-way contracts and the first-apron limit, noting Thompson missed Summer League for Puerto Rico.
Because Thompson, Jalen Slawson and Kobe Brown already fill the two-way slots, adding Smith would force a waiver—most likely Thompson—and could lower the cost of a minimum-salary contract.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Indiana Pacers have not signed draft pick Braden Smith, risking guard Ethan Thompson’s two-way contract.
GM Chad Buchanan says the team must balance its roster spot, three two-way contracts and the first-apron limit, noting Thompson missed Summer League for Puerto Rico.
Because Thompson, Jalen Slawson and Kobe Brown already fill the two-way slots, adding Smith would force a waiver—most likely Thompson—and could lower the cost of a minimum-salary contract.