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Nesmith’s Ankle Concerns Threaten Pacers’ Eastern Conference Final Momentum

NBA access_alarms2025-05-29 16:52:05 visibility6 text_decrease title text_increase

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Table of Contents

Critical Game 4 Showdown

The Indiana Pacers enter Tuesday night's Game 4 against the New York Knicks with their 2-1 series lead hanging in the balance. All eyes remain on forward Aaron Nesmith, whose right ankle sprain from Game 3 could dramatically impact this crucial Eastern Conference Finals matchup.

Injury Breakdown

Nesmith suffered the lateral ankle injury during a third-quarter drive against Jalen Brunson. Despite returning briefly in the fourth quarter, the Pacers' two-way star showed clear mobility limitations. Team medical staff confirmed this is the same type of injury that previously sidelined him for 35 games this season.

Aaron Nesmith's Ankle Injury Casts Shadow Over Pacers' Game 4 Hopes Against Knicks

Current Status

Head coach Rick Carlisle described Nesmith as "predictably sore" during Monday's press conference, listing him as a game-time decision. Team sources suggest his participation remains "probably questionable" based on morning shootaround observations.

Strategic Implications

Nesmith's potential absence creates multiple challenges for Indiana:

1. Defensive Matchups: Losing their primary defender against Brunson and Randle

2. Three-Point Threat: Removing their playoff 3PT leader (53.1%)

3. Playoff Experience: Depleting crucial postseason-tested depth

Team Adjustments

With Isaiah Jackson also sidelined (Achilles), the Pacers may need to:

- Increase minutes for Benedict Mathurin and Obi Toppin

- Implement small-ball lineups against New York's zone defense

- Redistribute defensive assignments among backcourt players

Series Outlook

A Pacers victory would position them for their first NBA Finals since 2000, while a Knicks win would create a best-of-three scenario. New York demonstrated comeback capability in Game 3, erasing a 20-point deficit during Nesmith's absence.

Key Factors

- Nesmith's pain tolerance and mobility during warmups

- Indiana's perimeter defense adjustments

- New York's ability to exploit frontcourt matchups

Final Assessment

Nesmith's condition remains the X-factor in this pivotal matchup. The Pacers' championship aspirations may depend on their forward's ability to overcome this recurring ankle issue, while the Knicks look to capitalize on any defensive vulnerabilities created by his potential absence.