Pacers, Hornets Granted Disabled-Player Exceptions

The injury bug has bitten hard, and the league is responding. Both the Charlotte Hornets and Indiana Pacers have been granted disabled player exceptions (DPEs) to help soften the blow of season-ending injuries to key players. James Wiseman, Pacers, NBA

Charlotte’s DPE comes in at $6,512,625 following the devastating knee injury to Grant Williams. Per ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the exception is worth half of Williams’ 2024-25 salary and gives the Hornets an option to make a roster adjustment in his absence.

Over in Indiana, the Pacers were hit with a double whammy. Both Isaiah Jackson and James Wiseman suffered torn Achilles tendons, effectively ending their seasons. The Pacers were awarded two DPEs: $2,217,690.50 for Jackson and $1,118,845.50 for Wiseman, representing half of each player’s salary for this season, according to Marks.

The DPE gives teams a little breathing room, but there are strings attached. Charlotte and Indiana have until March 10 to use these exceptions, and the options are limited.

They can sign a free agent, claim a player off waivers, or make a trade—but only for a player in the final year of his deal. Plus, the replacement can only be signed for the rest of the season, keeping this strictly a short-term fix.

Adding to the challenge, both the Hornets and Pacers currently have full rosters. However, flexibility exists, thanks to players on non-guaranteed or partially guaranteed contracts. That means some tough decisions could be on the horizon as they navigate the roster shuffle.

Bottom line? These DPEs aren’t a cure-all, but they provide options for Charlotte and Indiana to stay competitive despite significant setbacks. Now it’s on the front offices to find the right fit—and fast.