Pacers eyeing depth around Haliburton during Summer League run

Driving the news: The Pacers' first summer game against Cleveland on Friday includes the pro debut of homegrown rookie guard Braden Smith.

• Despite having no picks in this year's draft after an unlucky lottery outing, the Pacers made a trade with Chicago to acquire the Westfield native and Purdue University record-setter.
• He'll play alongside returners Taelon Peter and Jalen Slawson, both of whom finished last season on Indiana's NBA roster.

What he's saying: "I love it, and I think that's the best thing for me right now," Smith said of being the "new guy" on the team. "You start back at ground zero, and then you've got to build your way up. And I think that's where I've succeeded in my high school days and also my college days."

• "No one thinks you can come in here and make an impact," he said. "For me, that's where I strive."

Also grabbing attention is Keion Brooks Jr., a Fort Wayne native who is making the move to Indy from the Noblesville Boom.

• During his run with the Pacers' G League affiliate, Brooks averaged 21.3 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game.
• The full summer roster includes four players who spent last season balling for the Boom.

Between the lines: The Pacers front office is also making moves, signing veteran wing Kelly Oubre Jr.; waiving center Micah Potter; and using the savings to sign forward Larry Nance Jr. on a minimum deal.

• Pacers assistant coach Johnny Carpenter, originally slated to lead the Las Vegas summer league squad, left the team this week to join the Milwaukee Bucks as an assistant and head of player development.
• Bryce Taylor has been named as his replacement.

How to watch: The Pacers vs. the Cavs starts at 4:30pm Friday on ESPN2.

• The Pacers play the Philadelphia 76ers at 5:30pm Saturday on Amazon Prime; the Toronto Raptors at 4:30pm Monday on ESPN2; and the Minnesota Timberwolves at 3:30pm Wednesday on Amazon Prime.
• A fifth, seeding-based game will follow based on results.