NBA: Pacers lose Aaron Nesmith to harm in Game 3 vs Knicks

Indiana Pacers ahead Aaron Nesmith walks towards the crew bench all through the second one part of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals of the NBA basketball playoffs in opposition to the New York Knicks Sunday, May 25, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

INDIANAPOLIS — Aaron Nesmith, the Indiana Pacers most sensible defender, left Game 3 in opposition to the New York Knicks halfway throughout the 3rd quarter Sunday sooner than returning for a part of the fourth.

Whether he’ll play Tuesday evening in Game 4 is unclear.

READ: NBA: Knicks come again from 20 down to overcome Pacers in Game 3

Coach Rick Carlisle mentioned he inserted Nesmith as a result of he used to be cleared to play. But his go back didn’t save you the Pacers from frittering away a fourth-quarter lead in a 106-100 loss. Nesmith didn’t glance the similar after the harm, and Carlisle mentioned he would withhold judgment about Game 4 till he receives additional info Monday.

Nesmith landed awkwardly when he jumped to throw a cross into the nook that sailed prime and wound up within the seats.

READ: NBA: Pacers close to first NBA Finals since 2000, host Knicks for Game 3

After play stopped, Nesmith remained down in brief sooner than his teammates helped him up after which motioned for the running shoes assist. He struggled to place weight at the leg, wanted help to go away the court docket and went instantly to the locker room.

He used to be Indiana’s number one defender on All-Star guard Jalen Brunson because the Pacers pulled out to a 70-57 lead.

The Pacers nonetheless cling a 2-1 lead within the Eastern Conference finals.