Johnny Furphy Lands in Dream Scenario Despite NBA Draft Tumble
Standout Kansas freshman G Johnny Furphy didn’t hear his name called on the first night of the 2024 NBA Draft but his wait was worth it, as the promising Australian was taken at No. 35 by the Indiana Pacers.
Led by Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, Indiana’s exciting young roster surged to the Eastern Conference Finals. Furphy is the first player selected by the Pacers, who traded up with the Spurs to snag the Jayhawk’s services.
Furphy’s versatility, knock-down shooting and excellence in transition make him a perfect fit for Indiana’s style of play.
Kansas G Johnny Furphy Drafted by Indiana Pacers in Second Round
A natural fit for many teams, Furphy’s fall was surprising because he seems to have such a high ceiling. He shot 35.2% from beyond the arc and 76.5% from the free-throw line as a true freshman, displaying adept rebounding skills and an aggressive up-tempo style.
Some will chide Furphy for not sticking around at Kansas for one more year to improve his draft stock, though I love Indiana for him long-term. The Pacers can afford to be patient while he develops, and Haliburton will love finding Furphy flying down the court or spotting up for a three-pointer.
Even if Furphy spends time in the G League, Indiana has a strong player development program and he’ll make his way to the NBA sooner than later. He forced Bill Self’s hand at Kansas and could quickly do the same in his new home.
Indiana can reasonably expect to contend in the Eastern Conference for the next half-decade or more. Furphy can now be part of that and has an exciting opportunity ahead of him. Despite the agony of missing out on the first round, Furphy landed in a perfect spot.
