Aaron Nesmith’s Injury Update: How Will He Impact Pacers in NBA Finals Game 3 Against Thunder?
The Indiana Pacers are gearing up for Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, a pivotal matchup that could set the tone for the rest of the series. Forward Aaron Nesmith has been cleared to play despite nursing a lingering ankle injury that has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. With the series tied, his presence on the court can make all the difference as the Pacers aim to gain momentum in this championship contest.
How Aaron Nesmith’s Injury Happened
Nesmith’s troubles began in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks, where he suffered a right ankle sprain. The injury occurred during a pivotal moment in the third quarter when he landed awkwardly on Jalen Brunson’s foot. Despite the pain, Nesmith demonstrated remarkable resilience by returning to finish the game, which has drawn admiration from teammates and coaching staff alike.
Key moments following his injury include:
- Played through discomfort in subsequent games
- Scored 16 points in Game 4 but was limited to 3 points in 16 minutes in Game 5
- Swelling and stiffness affected his mobility and shooting efficiency
Recovery Process Leading Up to the NBA Finals
Thanks to a five-day break between the Eastern Conference Finals and the NBA Finals, Nesmith had a crucial window for recovery. His rehabilitation regimen consisted of various treatments designed to alleviate pain and reestablish functionality.
| Treatment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cold tub therapy | Reduce swelling and inflammation |
| Hyperbaric chamber sessions | Accelerate tissue healing |
| Red light therapy | Improve circulation and reduce stiffness |
| Targeted physical therapy | Restore ankle mobility and strength |
Aaron Nesmith shared his thoughts on the break, emphasizing the importance of rest: “I needed ‘em. I was looking forward to these days off. I took ‘em, and I’ll be ready.”
Nesmith’s Impact on the Pacers’ Playoff Run
Throughout the postseason, Nesmith has proven to be a vital asset for the Indiana Pacers. Despite grappling with his injury, he has managed to produce noteworthy performances:
- Currently shooting an impressive 50% from three-point range, adding much-needed floor spacing
- Serving as the primary perimeter defender against some of the league’s elite scorers
- His determination through pain has earned him respect from teammates and coaching staff
His unique blend of defensive prowess and shooting capability makes him indispensable, especially against the Thunder’s high-octane offense.
What to Expect in Game 3 from Aaron Nesmith
With Game 3 on the horizon, Aaron Nesmith has been fully cleared and is not listed on the injury report, though it’s likely that the ankle sprain may limit his explosiveness. The Pacers will rely heavily on his:
- Defense against Thunder stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams
- Three-point shooting ability to stretch the floor
- Energy and hustle plays that can shift momentum
As the series shifts to Oklahoma City, Nesmith’s ability to play through discomfort could very well be the deciding factor for the Pacers. His resilience is emblematic of the underdog mentality that the Pacers embody as they pursue their first NBA championship.
Be sure to catch Game 3 tonight at 8:30 PM ET, where fans will eagerly watch to see how Aaron Nesmith contributes to the Pacers’ quest for glory.
