INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers are gearing up for a crucial Game 6 in the NBA Finals, but there is uncertainty surrounding the availability of their star player, Tyrese Haliburton. Head coach Rick Carlisle shared in a radio interview on Wednesday morning that Haliburton is dealing with a lower right leg injury that has been a concern throughout the series. This injury worsened during Monday’s Game 5 loss against Oklahoma City, where the Pacers fell 120-109, putting them at a 3-2 disadvantage in the championship series.
In Game 5, Haliburton played for 34 minutes despite the injury but struggled significantly, failing to make any field goals. His performance marked a disappointing low with just four points, seven rebounds, and six assists. This was the first instance in Haliburton's career where he logged at least 34 minutes without hitting a single shot. The team now faces a win-or-else scenario, and there is a real possibility Haliburton may not be on the court for Game 6 on Thursday.
“He is going to be carefully evaluated over the next 36 hours and will likely be listed as questionable on the injury report and probably will be a game-time decision for Game 6,” Carlisle stated during his interview on Indianapolis radio station 107.5 The Fan.
On Tuesday, Haliburton underwent an evaluation to assess the severity of his injury, which included an MRI exam. According to sources familiar with the situation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, neither Haliburton nor the team disclosed this information publicly. ESPN was the first to report the scheduling of the MRI. Although Carlisle did not explicitly mention the MRI following Game 5, he emphasized that the team would closely monitor Haliburton's condition, given the apparent muscular nature of the injury.
“We have to prepare for two scenarios — one where he plays and one where he does not,” Carlisle explained, indicating the strategic implications of Haliburton’s potential absence.
If Haliburton is unable to compete, it is likely that guard TJ McConnell will be promoted to a starting position. McConnell has been exceptional throughout these playoffs and played a significant role in narrowing an 18-point deficit to just two points in the second half of Game 5 before Oklahoma City regained control. “Depending on the situation tomorrow, we may need him for significantly more minutes,” Carlisle said, highlighting McConnell's importance as the Pacers prepare for Game 6.
During Game 5, Haliburton left the court late in the first quarter, returning to the bench with a wrap on his lower leg. Despite the pain, he chose to re-enter the game, ultimately playing 17 minutes in the second half. He led the Pacers in rebounds and assists during that period, demonstrating his determination. “I mean, it’s the NBA Finals. It’s the finals, man,” Haliburton remarked after the game. “I’ve worked my whole life to be here and I want to be out there to compete. Help my teammates any way I can. I was not great tonight by any means, but it’s not really a thought of mine to not play here. If I can walk, then I want to play. They understand that. And it is what it is. Got to be ready to go for Game 6.”
The Pacers are scheduled to practice on Wednesday, with Carlisle indicating that the session will primarily consist of meetings and walk-throughs. As the team readies for the pivotal Game 6, all eyes will be on Haliburton’s recovery and readiness to contribute in what could be a defining moment for the franchise.
