Aaron Nesmith's New Contract Signals Trust from Indiana Pacers

Aaron Nesmith has been a pivotal player for the Indiana Pacers, especially during their impressive run to the NBA Finals last season. As the 2025-26 campaign approaches, the Pacers are showing their commitment to him by finalizing a two-year, $40.4 million contract extension.

According to a report by ESPN's Shams Charania, the extension will keep Nesmith with the Pacers until the end of the 2028-29 season. The deal includes a trade kicker and represents the maximum permissible salary increase through the extension. This move comes on the heels of Nesmith's impactful performance since joining the Pacers from the Boston Celtics prior to the 2022-23 season, where he transformed from a secondary player into a crucial contributor.

Over his three seasons in Indiana, Nesmith has averaged 11.3 points and 3.8 rebounds per game, showcasing his efficiency by shooting 47.3 percent from the field and an impressive 40.2 percent from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch defenses, complemented by his chemistry with star guard Tyrese Haliburton, has made him an essential asset for the team.

Nesmith became a household name during the last postseason, particularly during Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals when he scored 30 points, going 8-of-9 from three-point range, leading the Pacers to a crucial comeback victory against the New York Knicks. He maintained a remarkable shooting percentage of 53.3 percent from three during the playoffs while also providing valuable defensive support, effectively guarding players across various positions.

As the Pacers enter the 2025-26 season, Nesmith's role will become even more significant, especially with Haliburton recovering from an Achilles injury. With a new contract in place, he is set to shoulder increased responsibilities and continue to make an impact on both ends of the floor for the Pacers.