Pacers top defender Aaron Nesmith will play in Game 4 of Eastern Conference finals against Knicks

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The Indiana Pacers will have Aaron Nesmith, their top defender, available Tuesday night for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals against the New York Knicks.

Coach Rick Carlisle had said Monday that Nesmith’s sprained right ankle was “sore” and that he would likely be a game-time decision. But during his pregame news conference, Carlisle confirmed Nesmith would play.

He’s been Indiana’s primary defender against All-Star guard Jalen Brunson and after Nesmith left Game 3 in the third quarter, the Pacers blew a big lead in a 106-100 loss. Nesmith did return late in the game but did not look the same. Indiana leads the series 2-1.

“He’s doing better than expected,” Carlisle said, before addressing whether Nesmith’s minutes would be limited. “It’s to be determined. Not as of now, but I always watch everybody’s minutes so, it’ll be something that in real time, we’ll have to gauge.”

Nesmith was injured when he landed awkwardly after making a pass into the corner that sailed into the seats.

Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith, left, is defended by New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) during the second half of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals of the NBA basketball playoffs Sunday, May 25, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)

Nesmith scored a playoff career-high 30 points in Game 1, setting the Pacers’ postseason record with eight 3-pointers.

Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith (23) celebrates after scoring against the New York Knicks during the second half of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals of the NBA basketball playoffs Sunday, May 25, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)

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