- May 21, 2026
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SportsMafia Wire graphic. Team logos and player headshots via ESPN.
Indiana Pacers shooting guard Ben Sheppard is facing an extended absence after being diagnosed with a torn meniscus in his left knee.
The injury occurred during Wednesday's victory over New Orleans, the team confirmed via its official injury report. Head coach Rick Carlisle indicated prior to Friday's home opener against Dallas that Sheppard will miss "a little bit" of time, with a tentative estimate of "a few weeks" according to Tony East of Forbes and Circle City Spin.
No definitive return timeline has been established for the 25-year-old.
Sheppard, the 26th overall pick in the 2023 draft, has been a steady rotation piece for Indiana across his first three seasons. He appeared in 65 games last season, averaging 7.1 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 21.4 minutes per game.
The former Belmont standout did not reach a rookie scale extension agreement with the Pacers by the October 19 deadline and is set to become a restricted free agent next summer.
In related roster news, wing Aaron Nesmith returned Friday after missing the season opener with a hamstring issue, though Jarace Walker retained the starting spot.
Mickey's Angle: Indiana's wing depth takes a hit with Sheppard sidelined, making Nesmith's health and Walker's development even more critical early in the season.
Source: Hoops Rumors - written by Mickey the Mouth from the original report.