By Grant Afseth
Copyright newsweek
The Indiana Pacers were among the NBA teams that expressed interest in Kobe Bufkin before the Atlanta Hawks traded the young guard to the Brooklyn Nets, according to RG.org.Atlanta initially resisted moving Bufkin earlier in the offseason but became more open to the idea following the Las Vegas Summer League. The 21-year-old guard averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across four games in Vegas, though he struggled to score efficiently, shooting 35.5% from the field and 25.9% from 3-point range.The Hawks, looking to contend in a wide-open Eastern Conference, focused on players who could contribute immediately. That made Bufkin, the No. 15 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, available despite his long-term potential. He appeared in 10 games for Atlanta during the 2024-25 season, averaging 5.3 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.7 assists.Read more: Former First-Round Pick to Work Out for KnicksThe Pacers’ reported interest coincided with their need to address a major roster setback. All-NBA guard Tyrese Haliburton is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon in Game 7 of the NBA Finals. His absence leaves Indiana without its offensive engine and forces a reshaping of the backcourt rotation.Andrew Nembhard is projected to take over as the starting point guard, carrying an increased playmaking and scoring load. The organization believes in his ability to guide the offense, but the responsibilities ahead of him are considerable. Nembhard has averaged 13.0 points and 6.8 assists in 43 games without Haliburton in his career, but he’s positioned to make an even greater impact as he enters his fourth season.Veteran T.J. McConnell will remain the team’s primary backup as he is set to begin a four-year, $44.8 million contract. However, the depth chart lacks proven options beyond that. Rookie Kam Jones, drafted out of Marquette, could earn minutes at either guard spot depending on his readiness. Two-way players Quenton Jackson and RayJ Dennis provide additional depth but are not expected to feature prominently unless injuries occur.Read more: Wizards’ Bilal Coulibaly Faces New Update on Injury TimetableWithout Haliburton, the Pacers will rely on collective contributions. Bennedict Mathurin and Aaron Nesmith could take on larger roles, while McConnell’s leadership will be key in stabilizing second-unit play.The organization has acknowledged that replacing Haliburton’s unique skill set is impossible. Still, with internal depth and a system-driven approach, Indiana hopes to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference race.For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.
