With Andrew Nembhard expected to take on the biggest role of his Indiana Pacers career so far next season, fans should be excited to see him take that next step and showcase exactly how much value he brings in a much greater capacity.
The Canadian native has been a solid player for the Pacers throughout his first three years with the team so far, and he has stepped up numerous times, particularly during the playoffs. However, while he has excelled as a complementary player alongside Tyrese Haliburton in the backcourt, he has not had many opportunities to run the show. Next year, all of that changes.
With Haliburton out for the entire season due to an Achilles injury, the Pacers are going to slide Nembhard over to the point guard role full-time. Though this is not ideal considering how important the Wisconsin native is to Indiana's success, there are still reasons for fans to be excited about this.
A lot of eyes will be on Nembhard next season, but if he has proven anything so far, it is that he does his best when the pressure is on him. Next season, with the Pacers needing him now more than ever, the pressure is on, and he has given fans reasons to believe he can step up and be the best version of himself.
Andrew Nembhard will be crucial to Indiana's success next season
Despite being just one win away from an NBA Championship in June, few are expecting Indiana to be competitive next season, and it is easy to understand why.
Not only are the Pacers going to be without Haliburton, but they will also have to navigate through life without Myles Turner, who signed with the Milwaukee Bucks as a free agent. Because of this, the team is going to look incredibly different next season, and as they are expected to go through their fair share of ups and downs, it may prove to be too difficult for them to remain legitimate contenders next season.
However, the Pacers have shown no indication that they are going to tank. Even if it is unlikely, the team will try to make some noise in the East and go on another deep playoff run. For them to do so, though, they will need Nembhard to take that next step.
The Gonzaga alum will not just be tasked with replacing the Pacers' All-NBA guard and his impact, but he will also aim to keep his value on the defensive side of the ball.
What makes Nembhard so useful for the Pacers is his ability to make an impact in every area. Not only is he a fantastic ball-handler and playmaker, but he is exceptional on defense. It remains to be seen exactly how his defense will be impacted now that he is taking on a bigger offensive role, but he is one of Indiana's most important players for a reason, and he will now have an opportunity to fully unlock his potential next year.
There is not a lot going well for Indiana next season, but that does not mean there is nothing to look forward to, and this is especially true about Nembhard, who may be in line for a career year.