The Indiana Pacers have finalized a two-year, $40.4 million extension with forward Aaron Nesmith. This contract goes through the 2028-29 season. It further demonstrates that the team believes in a player who has become indispensable to their unexpected playoff run.
Nesmith’s postseason breakout was truly a sight to behold. He drew elite top defensive matchups, going head to head with most of the league’s top talents. Most impressively, he made successful isolation stands against Jalen Williams, Jalen Brunson, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Darius Garland during the playoff run. His defensive dominance was instrumental in helping the Pacers reach the NBA Finals, where he started all 23 games.
Aside from his defense, Nesmith showed off his offensive talents. He shot a mesmerizing 49.2% from deep across the playoffs. That incredible mark is the highest percentage ever recorded by any player in NBA history for a single postseason, as long as they attempted at least 100 threes. His unique shooting accuracy took his whole game to heights. It helped to firmly establish him as the best player on perhaps the best team in the Eastern Conference.
Nesmith had a breakout season in the 2024-25 campaign, posting career highs in points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks per game. He finished with a 51% shooting from the field. Similarly, he stood out with a three-point shooting mark of 43% and a scintillating free throw percentage of 91%. His accomplishments say more about his own personal journey and evolution as a player. With an eye toward long-term direction and success, the Pacers made a calculated move to extend his contract.
The contract extension comes with a trade kicker. This provides additional flexibility to the player and the franchise alike. Nesmith’s ability to excel in high-pressure situations, combined with his exceptional shooting and defensive skills, makes him an invaluable asset to the Pacers’ roster.
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