Nesmith will get the starting nod in his first game in about 10 weeks. He'll fill in for Bennedict Mathurin, who is serving a one-game suspension. Haliburton is also back after a one-game absence, which will push Ben Sheppard to the bench.
Nesmith will suit up for the first time since November 1st, and it wouldn't be surprising if he was on a minutes restriction. Bennedict Mathurin had been starting in his place, but he has been suspended for this game. If Nesmith doesn't immediately return to the starting lineup, Ben Sheppard should be in line for another start.
Haliburton will be back after a one-game absence, and it appears that the injury isn't as severe as it initially seemed. His return lines up with Aaron Nesmith's return and a one-game suspension for Bennedict Mathurin, so it's unclear if Ben Sheppard will remain in the starting lineup. Andrew Nembhard and T.J. McConnell won't have the same streaming appeal with Haliburton back.
Mathurin was ejected from Tuesday's game after picking up his second technical foul while arguing a call. He would then bump the official, which cost him one game. Mathurin will not be available for Thursday's game against the Pistons. Ben Sheppard will play solid minutes, especially if Tyrese Haliburton remains out. However, the Pacers could welcome Haliburton and Aaron Nesmith back, which would more than help account for Mathurin's absence.
Nesmith, who last played on November 1, is closing in on a return to game action. Bennedict Mathurin has played well as his replacement in the starting lineup, potentially doing enough to hold onto the job even after Nesmith is cleared to play without any restrictions. Over the long haul, Ben Sheppard stands to take a more significant hit than Mathurin in terms of fantasy value.