The Pacers will be without two rotational players when they begin the regular season on the road against the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. Starting small forward Aaron Nesmith (left hamstring strain) and backup point guard T.J. McConnell (right hamstring strain) are out for the game.
McConnell's absence comes as no surprise as he did not play in any of the team's four preseason games. The team has not provided a timeline for the 34-year-old's injury.
Nesmith missed the final two preseason games, although he said he was "feeling good" on Thursday. Nesmith was seen practicing in the portion open to the media Tuesday. Jarace Walker also missed the final two preseason games, but he is not on the injury report.
Johnny Furphy, who the team expects to be out until midseason after his ACL tear, is also out. Two of the team's two-way players, Kobe Brown and Jalen Slawson, are probable, while Braden Smith is doubtful. Those players don't have injury designations, but two-way players are limited to playing in 50 NBA games throughout the season.
The Pacers will look to recover from their 19-63 season a year ago and get off to a good start without two key players. Kelly Oubre Jr., whom the team signed this summer, will likely start in Nesmith's place. Andrew Nembhard and Quenton Jackson are expected to split backup point guard duties without McConnell.
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This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Pacers will be missing two key players in season opener vs. Pelicans