The Pacers have endured a nightmare season coming off their 2025 NBA Finals appearance, but they did get one of their main playoff contributors back. Aaron Nesmith returned to the court after a lengthy absence due to a left MCL sprain.
Nesmith hadn’t played in a game since Nov. 13 due to the injury, but he returned over the weekend for the Pacers. Indiana needs all the production it can get as it’s currently 6-27, the worst record in the East. It’s a clear reset year for the Pacers — especially after Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles injury in Game 7 of the NBA Finals.
Nesmith has developed nicely for Indiana ever since being traded from the Celtics back in the summer of 2022. He was a huge part of their Finals run, averaging 12.7 points and 5.7 rebounds in 23 games (all starts), while knocking down 49.2% of his 3-pointers. Nesmith didn’t get much playing time with the C’s, but the Pacers had minutes available and the former first-round pick made the most of his opportunity.
The Pacers inked Nesmith to a two-year extension following their playoff run, so he’ll be part of the long-term plan even beyond this season. Indiana could be dangerous next season with a healthy Haliburton and a potential top pick in what’s considered a loaded 2026 NBA Draft.
Nesmith is averaging career-highs at 14.4 points and 4.4 rebounds through 13 games (11 starts) this season. He’s also knocking down 39.2% of his 7.5 3-point attempts per game. After his stellar playoff run, Nesmith is considered one of the better 3-and-D players around the league.
The Pacers will look to pick up some positives amid a lost season, though, as they’ve dropped nine straight games. Nesmith returning should help, and like they showed against the Celtics recently, there’s some talent on the roster. How they gel the rest of the season will be important as they look to compete again next season.