Indiana Pacers rookie guard Ben Sheppard has been sidelined with a non-COVID illness, forcing him to miss the game against the New Orleans Pelicans and the upcoming match against the San Antonio Spurs. According to Pacers coach Rick Carlisle, Sheppard will rejoin the team in Dallas for their game against the Mavericks on Tuesday. Although there has been some improvement in his condition, it is not sufficient for him to play.

Veteran forward Doug McDermott is also out for a third consecutive game due to a right calf strain. Carlisle mentioned that McDermott is solely focused on rehab and is not engaging in any other activities.

The absence of both players has left the Pacers with a lack of depth at the wing in the second unit. Sheppard has been a valuable asset on both ends of the floor, averaging 7.6 points per game and boasting impressive shooting percentages since the trade that brought him to the Pacers. On the other hand, McDermott’s performance has been hampered by his injury, but the team remains optimistic about his potential impact once he has fully recovered.

Fortunately, the return of starting small forward Aaron Nesmith has provided some relief for the Pacers. Nesmith, who had missed four games due to a sprained right ankle, made a solid comeback with nine points and three rebounds in the Pacers’ recent loss to the Pelicans. He expressed satisfaction with his fitness level and performance, following his return to the court.

With Sheppard and McDermott absent, the Pacers had the opportunity to give rookie Jarace Walker significant playing time. Walker seized the chance and delivered an impressive performance, contributing six points, seven rebounds, six assists, three steals, and three blocked shots in nearly 27 minutes of play.

The Pacers will undoubtedly be eager to have Sheppard and McDermott back in action, as their contributions are crucial to the team’s success. The return of Nesmith and the emergence of young talents like Walker have provided some positives amidst the challenges posed by injuries. Pacers fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for Sheppard and McDermott, as the team looks to maintain its competitive edge in the upcoming games.