RayJ Dennis Inks Two-Way Deal with Indiana Pacers, Solidifying Guard Depth
The Indiana Pacers are set to bolster their backcourt depth with the addition of guard RayJ Dennis on a two-way contract. Dennis, a 23-year-old undrafted rookie, has been showcasing his skills with the G League’s San Diego Clippers, averaging 16.7 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.5 rebounds in 18 games. This signing marks the culmination of a winding journey for Dennis, who briefly held two-way contracts with the Los Angeles Clippers and Washington Wizards earlier this season before being waived by both teams.
Dennis’s path to the NBA has been marked by perseverance and a dedication to honing his craft. After a five-year collegiate career spanning Boise State, Toledo, and finally Baylor, where he averaged an impressive 13.6 points and 6.7 assists per game, Dennis went undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft. However, he quickly found his footing in the G League, proving himself to be a capable floor general and a dynamic playmaker. His performance with the San Diego Clippers, coupled with a pre-draft workout with the Pacers in June, ultimately caught the eye of Indiana’s front office, leading to this latest opportunity.
The Pacers had an open two-way contract slot following the recent release of guard Tristen Newton. Dennis’s signing fills that void, providing the organization with another promising young guard to develop within their system. With Newton primarily assigned to the G League’s Indiana Mad Ants, Dennis is expected to follow a similar trajectory, splitting time between the NBA and G League levels. His addition addresses a need for a more traditional setup man within the Mad Ants roster, balancing the team’s offensive dynamics.
Dennis’s signing also speaks to the Pacers’ proactive approach to talent acquisition and development. They recognized his potential during his pre-draft workout and have now acted decisively to secure his services. This move underscores the organization’s commitment to building a sustainable future through shrewd personnel decisions and a focus on nurturing young talent. Dennis’ skill set as a pass-first guard aligns well with the Pacers’ system, offering a different dynamic than their current two-way players.
The financial implications of Dennis’s two-way contract are minimal for the Pacers. Two-way deals do not count against the salary cap, allowing the team to add Dennis without jeopardizing their current financial standing. This is particularly relevant given the Pacers’ proximity to the luxury tax threshold. The two-way contract also means Dennis will earn half of the NBA’s rookie minimum salary, prorated based on the remaining days in the season. The specifics of the contract, including its length (one or two years), are still being finalized.
Dennis’s arrival in Indiana represents an exciting new chapter in his basketball journey. While immediate NBA playing time may be limited, the opportunity to learn and develop within a structured NBA environment is invaluable. He joins a Pacers organization that values player development and has a history of successfully nurturing young talent. The Mad Ants will likely be his primary proving ground, where he can refine his skills and demonstrate his readiness for the NBA stage. The Pacers will have the remainder of the season, and potentially beyond, to evaluate Dennis’ progress and determine his long-term fit within the organization. His success in the G League thus far suggests he has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to the Pacers franchise in the future.
