In a surprising turn of events this morning at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indiana Pacers head coach **Rick Carlisle** has made a **major personnel request** following the signing of **Jalen Slawson**, the dynamic forward previously with the Sacramento Kings and a standout at Furman University.
Sources close to the organization confirm that Coach Carlisle has requested a **revamp of the team’s second-unit offensive schemes**, specifically designed to integrate Slawson’s unique skill set. Known for his high-IQ playmaking, defensive versatility, and hustle, Slawson is expected to bring a new layer of intensity to Indiana’s bench rotation.
> “Jalen brings a kind of energy and adaptability that we’ve been looking for,” Carlisle said in a brief media appearance. “He’s the kind of player who makes others around him better. We’re going to maximize that.”
### A Strategic Move Ahead of Training Camp
The Pacers finalized the deal with Slawson just days before the start of training camp. While details of the contract remain undisclosed, insiders suggest it’s a short-term deal with potential for long-term value based on performance.
Carlisle’s immediate request to adjust team dynamics around Slawson is a clear signal that the coaching staff sees **real impact potential** in the 6’7″ forward. Assistant coaches have reportedly been tasked with developing plays that leverage Slawson’s ball-handling and off-ball cutting — areas in which he excelled during his college and G-League stints.
### What This Means for the Pacers
This move comes as the Pacers look to build on last season’s promising performance, where young stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin began making waves in the Eastern Conference. Integrating a player like Slawson could further solidify the Pacers’ second unit — a weak spot last season.
Fans have taken to social media with mixed reactions, some praising the under-the-radar signing, while others remain skeptical.
> “Slawson might be the sleeper pick-up of the year,” one Pacers fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Carlisle wouldn’t make this kind of noise unless he saw something big coming.”
### Final Thoughts
With training camp just around the corner, all eyes will be on how quickly Slawson adapts and whether Carlisle’s bold request leads to a real shift in Indiana’s game plan. One thing is certain — the Pacers are not standing still this offseason.
