"Aaron Nesmith is a player that every team in the NBA wants." Tyrese Haliburton on Aaron's impact after his career night in Boston.
Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers' All-Star, didn't held back when asked for an opinion on the new NBA elegibility rules to compete for the most prestigious season awards. Haliburton was several games out due to injuries and he's close to missing 17 games, which would rule him out from the trophies, despite his wonderful season.
Haliburton, a key part of the Pacers' strategy, already missed 13 games this season. This setback takes on an even greater dimension due to NBA rules that could affect his personal aspirations.
In a recent statement, Haliburton expressed his disagreement with a rule that limits his eligibility for NBA awards if he misses five more games in the season. "I think it's a stupid rule, like a lot of other players in the league, but that's what the owners want, so as players, we have to do our job and play 65 games if we can," he commented..
This challenge takes on added importance due to the significant financial interest Haliburton has in being named to an All-NBA team. The point guard signed a maximum rookie scale extension last season, a deal that will go into effect for the 2024-25 season. According to contract details, Haliburton is projected to receive $35.25 million next season and a total of $204.5 million over the five-year deal.
However, the possibility of making the All-NBA team could radically change the financial picture for Haliburton. If he accomplishes the feat, his contract would experience a substantial increase, reaching 30% of the salary cap. This would translate into revenues of $42.3 million for the 2024-25 season and a staggering $245.3 million over the five years of the contract.
The situation highlights the duality faced by NBA players, who must balance the pressure to perform on the court with the need to take care of their health to ensure their eligibility in contention for the league's prestigious awards.
"Aaron Nesmith is a player that every team in the NBA wants." Tyrese Haliburton on Aaron's impact after his career night in Boston.