Photo: SI Pacers/X

After last season’s trade that saw Malcolm Brogdon move from the Pacers to the Celtics, there was a prevailing sentiment on social media that Boston didn’t provide much value in the exchange.

Fast forward to the present, and Indiana forward Aaron Nesmith, part of the trade package, has emerged as a vital member of the Pacers’ rotation.

Since joining Indiana, Nesmith has averaged 10.2 points per game and acknowledged feeling overlooked last summer.

Now, he has earned the trust and approval of the coaching staff.

“He’s been one of our best defensive players and obviously, we all know he can shoot the ball really well and he’s developed other parts of his game,” said head coach Rick Carlisle.

“He drives it now, he’s making really good, simple reads and a very important part of what we’re doing here.“