The Indiana Pacers made a definitive statement in their final outing of the 2026 NBA Summer League, delivering a dominant 91-73 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans at The Pavilion in Las Vegas. This wasn't just a win; it was a showcase of disciplined play and offensive firepower that hints at promising depth.
Key Takeaways:
- Indiana Pacers defeated New Orleans Pelicans 91-73 in their final Summer League game.
- Jalen Slawson led the Pacers with an impressive 22 points.
- Indiana absolutely dominated the paint, outscoring the Pelicans 48-30.
- Dominique Daniels Jr. shined for the Pelicans, scoring 25 points off the bench.
Indiana's Paint Power Drives Victory
The Pacers owned the interior from tip-off, establishing a colossal 48-30 advantage in points in the paint. This relentless assault on the basket, combined with a scorching 29-12 third-quarter surge, completely broke the Pelicans' resolve after a tight first half. Indiana also got off to a quick start, leading 23-16 after the first quarter.
Slawson, Peter, and Keita Lead the Charge
Jalen Slawson was the undisputed star for Indiana, pouring in a game-high 22 points. He wasn't alone in lighting up the scoreboard; Taelon Peter and Keba Keita each contributed 14 points and added two steals, showcasing their two-way potential. Rienk Mast also chipped in with a solid 12 points and six rebounds, ensuring multiple Pacers starters reached double figures.
Pelicans' Fight Not Enough Against Pacer Storm
Despite a spirited effort, the New Orleans Pelicans couldn't match the Pacers' intensity, particularly after halftime. They trimmed the lead to just two points by the break, but Indiana quickly reasserted control in the pivotal third quarter, leaving New Orleans playing catch-up for good with their tight eight-man rotation.
Daniels Jr. and Nowell Show Flashes
Even in defeat, the Pelicans saw some individual brilliance. Dominique Daniels Jr. was a bright spot, exploding for 25 points off the bench and shooting an impressive 50% from beyond the arc. Point guard Markquis Nowell demonstrated his playmaking, tallying 14 points, six assists, and two steals. Malik Dia and Christian Shumate each added 11 points, while Solomon Washington grabbed 11 rebounds and made four steals, highlighting his defensive prowess.
Summer League Wrap-Up: Building for the Future
Both franchises now look ahead, having concluded their Summer League commitments. For the Pacers, this win underscores the potential of their developing talent, especially in areas like interior scoring and defensive intensity. The Pelicans, despite the loss, gained valuable insights into players who can contribute down the line, particularly the dynamic scoring of Daniels Jr. and the defensive energy of Washington. These young players will continue their development journeys, hoping to make an impact when the regular season arrives.
