The 2025–26 Indiana Pacers season has been anything but normal. After a historic run to the NBA Finals, their first Finals appearance since 2000, the team lost its leader and engine, Tyrese Haliburton, to a torn Achilles tendon in Game 7 of the Finals, ruling him out for the entire season. That absence, combined with other injuries and roster shifts, has forced players into roles many never expected.
With the win‑loss record (6–31 as of January 8, 2026) showing how topsy‑turvy the year has been, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos. But underneath the struggles, the season has revealed a lot about the value and potential of the players themselves.
Here’s a breakdown of which players’ stock has improved — and which players have seen their’s dip:
STOCK UP — Players Who Have Boosted Their Value:
ANDREW NEMBHARD
In Haliburton’s absence, the Pacers’ backcourt has been a rotating carousel. But one guard who’s consistently done his part is Andrew Nembhard.
- Nembhard is averaging about 17.2 points and 7.0 assists per game while running the offense.
- His assist numbers, a team high, show that he’s handling primary playmaking duties on a team with constant lineup changes.
Why this matters: In a season where guard stability was in question, Nembhard has risen to the occasion and showcased his ability to control the offense and limit turnovers.
JARACE WALKER
Not every rising stock comes with flashy numbers, but Jarace Walker has shown real growth in a rough environment.
- Per 36 minutes, Walker is contributing 13.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists showing he can be more than a role player when given extended time.
- His defensive versatility and physicality has given the Pacers length on the wing which has been something that’s been tough to find consistently this season.
Why this matters: Teams value young players who provide when thrown into difficult situations. Walker has been progressively getting better when given the opportunities.
STOCK DOWN — Players Who Have Seen Their Value Slip:
BENNEDICT MATHURIN
Mathurin was expected to be one of the key players to step up in Tyrese Haliburton’s absence. However, the reality has been rough:
- His scoring average sits at 17.8 points per game, a solid number but less than expected given offensive needs.
- More importantly, he’s missed significant time due to injury this season, and recent reports confirm he has no clear timetable to return.
Why this matters: In a year where opportunities have been wide open, availability is production. Missing time, and not dominating when available, hurts Mathurin’s value relative to expectations that have been held for him.
AARON NESMITH
Aaron Nesmith has shown glimpses of scoring ability this year, but his overall impact has been relatively limited:
- His scoring sits at 14.7 points per game, decent on its surface. However, his shooting efficiency, especially on three‑pointers, remains inconsistent (below league‑average marks).
Why this matters: Nesmith’s role in the offense relies on spacing the floor. When the shooting lacks consistency, the offense starts to collapse.
FINAL TAKEAWAY
This season has been incredibly revealing in what players have shown growth and development when put in larger roles, while others have left us disappointed.
It has provided evidence of who is going to help the Pacers come out victorious, while also spending light onto those that are going to fold under the pressure.
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