Pacers’ Aaron Nesmith Out for Month Due to Left Knee Injury
Aaron Nesmith of the Indiana Pacers is set to miss approximately one month due to a left knee injury. The injury occurred during the Pacers’ challenging loss to the Phoenix Suns on Thursday.
Nesmith’s Recovery Timeline
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle provided an optimistic update on Nesmith’s condition. He indicated that it is likely to take four weeks for a full recovery, although there is the possibility it could be shorter.
- Injury Date: Sustained on Thursday during a game against Phoenix.
- Expected Timeline: At least four weeks.
- Recovery Update: Nesmith is walking without a brace and is showing positive signs.
Impact on the Team
The Pacers are currently facing significant setbacks with multiple key players sidelined. The team has already lost a total of six players, including:
- Tyrese Haliburton: All-Star point guard, lost for the season due to a torn Achilles tendon.
- Bennedict Mathurin: Averaged 31 points in two games before a toe injury occurred.
- Andrew Nembhard: Recently returned after a six-game absence due to a shoulder injury.
- Obi Toppin: Key reserve averaging 14 points per game, now out with a stress fracture in his right foot.
Nesmith’s Personal Performance
Before his injury, Aaron Nesmith was enjoying a breakout season. He averaged a career-best 15.5 points and 4.5 rebounds over 11 games played. His standout performance included a career-high 31 points in a victory over the Golden State Warriors on November 1.
As of now, the Pacers are struggling, with a poor record standing at 1-11. The loss of Nesmith further complicates their efforts to turn the season around.