Andrew Nembhard has locked some of the biggest names in the league throughout the playoffs, and it is time for his respect. Until now, the playoffs, the Indiana Pacers goalkeeper has locked Damian Lillard (23.1% on 13 shots), Donovan Mitchell (23.3% on 43 shots), Jalen Brunson (38.2% on 34 shots) and Shai Gilgeous-Aalexander (41.2% on 51 shots). Nembhard was crucial for the defense of the Pacers throughout the season, and he intensified a major way in the playoffs.
Indiana has improved considerably on the defensive side of the ball this season, and Nembhard is a great reason for that. The Canadian native had the tools to be an excellent defensive player since he joined the NBA a few years ago, but he revealed another level this season. With the Pacers to a single victory in an NBA championship, they will continue to count on Nembhard to do what he did all year round, which makes the opposition as uncomfortable as possible.
The defense of Andrew Nembhard was fantastic in the playoffs
Offensively, Nembhard has experienced a high and bottom qualifying series, but he mainly presented himself in defense when the Pacers most need him. And against some of the best guards in the league, including the reigning MVP, they needed him a lot. Fortunately, he delivered and is a great reason why the Pacers are as successful as they are.
The Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder will meet for a Win-Or-Home match 7 on Sunday evening, and it will be the ultimate test for Nembhard. He was solid all year round, but it was at this time that the lights will be their brightest, and he will be responsible for trying to slow down Gilgeous-Alexander for the NBA championship. Many tours of the defense of Nembhard in match 7, but if he clearly explained throughout the playoffs, the Pacers can count on him to do the work.
Of course, Nembhard will not be the only stimulator that must intervene for the team in match 7, but it can be the team’s X factor. It is unlikely that he will lead the team in the notation or to an offensive masterclass, but his defensive contributions can be what leads Indiana to their very first title of the NBA.
The Canadian native was fantastic all the playoffs, but he has a match to consolidate his campaign. If he can do exactly that, he and the pacers could forever be engraved in history books as champions of the NBA 2025.
