Lost in the fold of a dramatic game was wing Aaron Nesmith, who made his return after missing all of November and December with an injury. Nesmith started but played only nine minutes. However, he scored an efficient nine points and brought some needed defense against Cade Cunningham.

Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith's return from a left ankle sprain was a reminder of how easily he fits in the Pacers' style of play.

The Indiana Pacers swingman missed 2 1/2 months with an ankle injury before returning on Jan. 16, 2025, against the Detroit Pistons.