From Indiana Pacers On SI · · 2m
Andrew Nembhard's Next Step
Nembhard must maintain 2025-26 production as Haliburton returns.
In brief
Nembhard must maintain 2025-26 production as Haliburton returns. Andrew Nembhard needs to keep his 2025-26 scoring and shooting stats to stay effective with Tyrese Haliburton back. Originally reported by Indiana Pacers On SI.
Nembhard's role with Pacers
Andrew Nembhard's role with the Indiana Pacers this season will be of significant value for multiple reasons.
Haliburton returns
With Tyrese Haliburton returning from injury, having another capable starting point guard in the lineup next to him helps alleviate pressure that will be thrown his way.
Preseason game against Atlanta
As we saw in Saturday night's preseason game against Atlanta, Haliburton did not play because of a minor ankle injury and the Pacers started Nembhard at the point and inserted Kelly Oubre Jr.at the wing.
Preseason game against Minnesota
In Wednesday's preseason game against Minnesota, Nembhard played the backup point guard role with T.J. McConnell sidelined. He helped spearhead a big run thanks to his defensive presence and by pushing the ball.
Nembhard's value
Nembhard is an invaluable piece to this team, but as he enters the prime of his NBA career, what is the next step he can take in his career.
Defensive role
Still regarded as the team's best on-ball defender, it will be his job on a night-to-night basis to matchup against the opponents best guard.
Foul trouble challenge
If Nembhard has to go to the bench with foul trouble, it weakens the strength of the ecosystem.
Three-point shooting
With Haliburton back running the offense, Nembhard has to become a reliable catch-and-shoot three-point shooter.
Improving shooting
He took a step forward last year in three-point percentage, but on 2.5 more attempts per game. Proving to be a reliable off-ball shooter will make him even more difficult to guard.
Scoring ability
He is a three-level scorer and can make opponents pay in a variety of ways.He just has to be more consistent with his perimeter shooting, while staying out of foul trouble on the defensive side.
2025-26 stats
Without Tyrese Haliburton on the court, Nembhard averaged 16.9 points and 7.7 assists per game, both career highs. He also shot 36.1% from deep, another career high, and 44.2% from the field.
Next step
The next step for Andrew Nembhard is to maintain his production from the 2025-26 regular season.
What it means
Andrew Nembhard needs to keep his 2025-26 scoring and shooting stats to stay effective with Tyrese Haliburton back.
