After winning each of their first two games of the series, the Indiana Pacers suffered a 16-point loss against the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 3. Despite the loss, the Pacers have a 2-1 series lead and are still in a decent spot. However, this was still far from an inspiring performance from the Pacers, who left a lot to be desired on the court (especially in the second half).
Outside of Obi Toppin (who scored 10 points on 4-for-9 shooting), nobody on Indiana's bench recorded double-digit points. Furthermore, Pascal Siakam was the only Pacer to score 10 or more points in the second half with 15 points (the next closest was Toppin with seven).
The Pacers did not play their best basketball, and it culminated in their first loss of the postseason. However, not all was bad for the Pacers as they got solid play out of Aaron Nesmith, whose performance bodes well for him and the team for the rest of the playoffs.
Aaron Nesmith had a solid performance in Game 3
Despite the Pacers' loss, Nesmith played well and was one of the few silver linings for the team. In the loss, the Vanderbilt alum scored 18 points on 7-for-13 shooting, including 4-for-8 from beyond the arc. Additionally, Nesmith recorded seven rebounds, three assists, two steals, and one block. Nesmith was one of the best players for Indiana in Game 3, and he gave fans another reason to look forward to his performances the rest of the way.
After a bit of an up-and-down season, especially pertaining to his injuries, Nesmith has finally found his niche with the Pacers in the postseason lineup. In addition to being one of the best defenders on the roster, Nesmith has turned into a legitimate sharpshooter and perimeter threat. However, not only has Nesmith developed into a consistent three-point threat, but he can score with volume, which changes everything for a Pacers team that already had a fantastic offense.
Nesmith is far from the most valuable player on the Pacers, but he is still important to their success. This was evident during the regular season, and it has become even more obvious in the first round. The Pacers have plenty of talent, but Nesmith provides a unique skillset that makes him stand out.
The Pacers' next game will be on Sunday night for Game 4. As they look to steal a game in Milwaukee and return home with a 3-1 series lead, the Pacers will likely rely a little more heavily on Nesmith to contribute on the offensive side of the ball.