Few players can be inserted into the starting lineup and deliver for a playoff team in the NBA. That's precisely what Aaron Nesmith has achieved this season with the Indiana Pacers, playing a pivotal role in the team's journey to the conference semifinals.

Now in his fourth year in the NBA and second with the Pacers, the 24-year-old small forward is posting career highs of 12 points, four rebounds, and one steal while logging 28 minutes per game.  

Nesmith's capacity to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting and to handle significant defensive matchups has been one of the key factors in Rick Carlisle's trust in him.

Coach on Aaron's extension

"There's a reason we wanted to sign him and have him be one of our longterm pieces," Coach said on Nesmith after signing a three-year and 33-million dollar extension with the Pacers last summer. 

"His development both offensively and defensively is on the come. He's getting better all the time."

The Vanderbilt alum entered the NBA in 2020 after being selected by the Celtics with the 13th overall pick. Following two seasons of struggling to secure consistent minutes, Nesmith and other players were traded to Indiana in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon. Now, still on his rookie contract, Aaron Nesmith has emerged as one of the brightest prospects for the future of the NBA.

Many years lie ahead for this team, and Nesmith has already established himself as one of the cornerstones of the Pacers' young core, alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Benedict Mathurin.