Pacers' Aaron Nesmith to Miss At Least a Month with Sprained Knee, Avoids Structural Damage

Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith is expected to miss at least a month, likely four weeks, due to a sprained knee, though fortunately, he avoided any structural damage. The injury occurred when Nesmith's knee buckled awkwardly after he stepped on teammate Jeremiah Robinson-Earl's foot while sliding defensively. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle confirmed the "very good news," noting Nesmith is not in a brace and is walking. Nesmith played a critical role in the Pacers' run to the NBA Finals last season and began this season with a much larger role due to Tyrese Haliburton's absence. He has been averaging a career-high 15.5 points per game but has struggled with efficiency, shooting just 36.7% from the field and 37.3% from three-point range, as he has become a focal point for opposing defenses.