Pacers fantasy outlook pivots dramatically without Haliburton. Nemhard steps into the starting role, but his fantasy profile may lag in scoring early while leaning on assists and three-pointers. McConnell remains a late-round wild card if he wins 24 minutes, while Nesmith and Mathurin combine for per-game upside with solid shooting and multi-category contributions. Inside center, Turner’s departure opens a messy rotation involving Isaiah Jackson, Jay Huff, James Wiseman, and Obi Toppin, making late-round center targets essential but risky.

The lack of a clear substitute at center and a potentially thin win pace cloud regular-season projections, pushing Pacers toward a roto-friendly but head-to-head landmine profile. In shallower leagues, Nesmith and Mathurin hold steadier floors, while Nimble guards could surprise in playoff bursts depending on minutes and matchups.

Eastern Conference middle class remains a riddle, with six teams capable of flashing playoff form but few clear paths to a top‑four seed. Joel Embiid’s health is the hinge for Philadelphia, where Maxey’s playmaking and scoring load would surge if Embiid misses time. Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton anchors a high‑tempo system, but Tyrese Haliburton’s absence would sting; Andrew Nimhard’s ball handling becomes vital and Miles Turner’s presence adds rim protection. In Miami, Norm Powell’s arrival shores up the wing rotation, while Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro lead a versatile, deep group that can outlast opponents with depth and initiative. Milwaukee’s defensive ceiling looks different with Miles Turner added into a Giannis‑driven project, but guard play remains a question mark. Toronto’s Pascal Siakam could be the seasonal X‑factor if they pivot into more structured, cohesive nights. These teams blend high ceilings with injury and cohesion risk, making every head‑to‑head a potential swing for fantasy leagues across the East.