Pacers Notebook: Obi Toppin returns, Jalen Slawson gets call-up
Toppin makes his long-awaited return from foot surgery, Slawson signs a two-way deal, and more Pacers notes following a four-game homestand.
Good afternoon, and welcome back to Fieldhouse Files. I’m Scott Agness.
Last week’s homestand didn’t go well. The Pacers lost all four games, allowing at least 125 points in each. We all know, at 15-46, they win (big picture) by losing. I just think it’s important for the team to guard against this mindset and allowing for it to creep in.
Accepting poor defense.
Accepting careless turnovers.
Accepting losses and moving on too easily.
This group built a strong culture over the past several seasons. Preserving it now matters — especially with expectations that the 2026-27 team should contend near the top of the Eastern Conference.
Speaking of culture and talent, Indianapolis just wrapped another successful run hosting the NFL Draft Combine. The event continues to be a win for the city — and for local businesses — and it’s always noticeable how many football decision-makers filter through Pacers games during the week.
There’s something energizing about it. Prime 47, Kilroy’s, High Velocity — the rooms are filled with media, agents, scouts, and league personnel. For anyone wired into the sports world, it’s a busy and productive stretch.
Meanwhile, the Pacers have enjoyed a rare schedule break, playing just once over five days. They return to action Wednesday in Los Angeles to begin a four-game road trip through LA, Portland, and Sacramento.
In today’s notebook: roster moves for the Pacers and Boom, Ryan Nembhard’s promotion, a notable email about MLS expansion, the end of an era at The Jungle, Aliyah Boston’s injury, Johnny Furphy’s surgery, T.J. McConnell’s family support, more on the league fine — and a closer look at Obi Toppin’s long-awaited return.
News & Notes…
Quenton Jackson has the right attitude after signing his new deal over the weekend: “I’m still broke, man,” he said in response to if he had a new purchase on his mind. “Still broke. … Always work to do. So I’m excited, but I kinda feel the same.”
The middle two quarters are where the Pacers are getting beat. For games in February, they were 6-5 in first quarters (twice edged by just one point), 3-8 in the second, 4-7 in the third and 5-5-1 in fourth quarters.
In the six games post All-Star break: they’re 0-6, yielding 128 points per game, and turning it over more than 18 times per game.
Noblesville Boom players Gabe McGlothan (rib fractures) and Ray Spalding (surgery, right metacarpal) have been ruled out for the rest of the season due to injuries.
As a result, the Boom signed PJ Hayes, and waived Garrett Denbow and Omar El-Sheikh. They’re on the road for a two-game series against Mexico City Capitanes.
