Is Aaron Nesmith playing tonight? (Image via: Nic Antaya/ Getty Images) The Indiana Pacers head into Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder with forward Aaron Nesmith expected to play despite a lingering ankle injury. His availability remains crucial for the Pacers as they aim to take a higher series lead.
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How Aaron Nesmith’s injury happened
Nesmith suffered a right ankle sprain in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks. The injury occurred after he landed awkwardly on Jalen Brunson’s foot in the third quarter. Despite the pain, Nesmith returned to finish the game, showcasing his toughness.Key Aaron Nesmith moments after the injury:– 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
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The five-day break between the Eastern Conference Finals and the NBA Finals allowed Nesmith to focus on recovery. His rehab included:
Indiana Pacers injury report for Game 3 (Image via NBA)
TreatmentPurposeCold tub therapyReduce swelling and inflammationHyperbaric chamber sessionsAccelerate tissue healingRed light therapyImprove circulation and reduce stiffnessTargeted physical therapyRestore ankle mobility and strengthAaron Nesmith acknowledged the importance of rest, saying, “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
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Despite the injury, Nesmith has been a key contributor in the postseason for the Indiana Pacers:– Shooting 50% from three-point range, providing crucial floor spacing– Serving as the primary perimeter defender against elite scorers– Playing through pain, earning praise from teammates and coachesHis defensive versatility and shooting make him indispensable, especially against the Thunder’s high-powered offense.
What to expect in Game 3 from Aaron Nesmith
Nesmith was fully cleared for Game 1 and is not listed on the injury report. However, the ankle sprain may still slightly limit his explosiveness. The Pacers will rely on his:– Defense against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Jalen Williams– Three-point shooting to stretch the floor– Energy and hustle playsWith the series shifting to Oklahoma City, Nesmith’s ability to play through discomfort could be the difference-maker. His resilience embodies the Pacers’ underdog mentality as they chase their first NBA championship.Also read: Tyrese Haliburton’s injury report for NBA Finals Game 3 Indiana Pacers vs OKC Thunder (June 11, 2025)Game 3 tips off tonight at 8:30 PM ET, with Aaron Nesmith expected to be in the starting lineup.
