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The Indiana Pacers suffered a setback when backup center James Wiseman suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury on opening night. However, fourth-year big man Isaiah Jackson has seamlessly stepped into the role, putting up solid numbers for the team. Jackson is averaging 7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in the early part of the season, proving to be a valuable asset for Indiana.

Now Jackson is lost for the season with a torn Achilles, the team announced.

Isaiah Jackson suffered an injury to his right Achilles tendon during last night's game at New Orleans.

An MRI taken earlier today confirmed that Jackson tore his right Achilles tendon, with surgery scheduled for Monday, November 4.

Learn more: https://t.co/Py7waxCXjq pic.twitter.com/DDnwPj5PZR

— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) November 3, 2024

This wasn't a surprise when Jackson went down with a non-contact injury in the fourth quarter against the Pelicans Friday night. After the game, coach Rick Carlisle was subdued when talking about Jackson and saying he hoped it wasn't the worst-case scenario. It was.

Indiana will have to dip into the free agent market or trade for another center to back up Myles Turner. In the short term, expect Obi Toppin to get some small ball run at the five, and they could throw rookie, two-way contract big man Enrique Freeman into the fire, but neither of those are good long-term options. The Pacers have an open roster spot and some flexibility, but they are going to have to find another big man to round out this roster in the coming weeks.