The Indiana Pacers have announced their decision to part ways with experienced point guard Cameron Payne. This move comes despite his recent signing with the team and a brief two-game preseason tenure. The franchise is reportedly looking to adjust its roster as the regular season approaches, indicating that Payne's contributions during the preseason were not sufficient to secure a long-term role. This decision marks another transition for the 31-year-old guard, who has had a journeyman career across multiple NBA teams.
Payne's journey in the NBA began when he was drafted 14th overall in 2015. Over his decade-long career, he has been a consistent presence as a reserve guard, known for his ability to provide offensive sparks and playmaking. His most impactful period was with the Phoenix Suns, where he played a crucial role in their deep playoff runs, including their appearance in the 2021 NBA Finals. His departure from the Pacers highlights the competitive nature of NBA rosters and the constant evaluation of player fit and performance.
Payne's Brief Stint with the Pacers Concludes
The Indiana Pacers recently made the decision to waive veteran point guard Cameron Payne, just weeks after bringing him on board. This move, reported by NBA insider Michael Scotto, signifies the team's strategic shift as they finalize their roster for the upcoming season. Payne's short time with the Pacers included two preseason appearances against the San Antonio Spurs, where he showed glimpses of his offensive capabilities, averaging 10 points and 2 assists in limited playing time. Despite these efforts and a respectable shooting percentage from beyond the arc, the Pacers ultimately opted for a different direction, indicating that his fit within the team's long-term plans was not solidified during his brief evaluation period.
Payne joined the Indiana Pacers earlier this month with aspirations of providing valuable experience and adding depth to their backcourt rotation. However, his limited preseason action, though statistically decent, did not translate into a permanent spot on the team. During his two games against San Antonio, he averaged 10 points and 2 assists, showcasing some of his characteristic outside shooting. Despite these flashes, the Pacers' decision reflects a desire to explore other options or focus on developing younger talent as they prepare for the regular season. This brief engagement highlights the transient nature of NBA contracts, especially for veteran players looking to secure roles on competitive teams.
Cameron Payne's NBA Career Overview
Cameron Payne has established himself as a reliable reserve point guard throughout his extensive 10-season NBA career. Drafted 14th overall in 2015 by the Oklahoma City Thunder, Payne has since played for seven different franchises, demonstrating his adaptability and persistence in the league. Across these teams—which include the Thunder, Bulls, Cavaliers, Suns, Bucks, Sixers, and Knicks—he has maintained career averages of 7.8 points and 3.2 assists in approximately 17.5 minutes per game. His consistent performance, particularly his ability to provide scoring and playmaking off the bench, has allowed him to carve out a significant role for various contenders and rebuilding teams alike.
A notable highlight of Payne's career came during his tenure with the Phoenix Suns, where he played an instrumental role in their successful playoff campaigns, culminating in the team's appearance in the 2021 NBA Finals. During that specific postseason run, he elevated his game, averaging 9.3 points and 3.2 assists over 22 appearances, proving his mettle on the biggest stage. In the most recent 2024–25 season, Payne divided his time between the Milwaukee Bucks and the New York Knicks, continuing to contribute steadily. He averaged 6.9 points and 2.8 assists across 72 games, with a solid 36.3 percent shooting accuracy from beyond the three-point line, further solidifying his reputation as a valuable and experienced guard in the league.
