Tyrese Haliburton Returns Strong, Leads Pacers to Season-Opening Victory

Tyrese Haliburton made an emotional return from a torn Achilles, leading the Indiana Pacers to a 123-120 win over the Pelicans. In his first game back since June 2025, Haliburton scored 23 points (8-15 FG, 5-5 FT) with 12 assists and 2 rebounds in 34 minutes, including clutch plays. He expressed deep gratitude post-game, serving as the offense's engine with 7 unassisted baskets. Haliburton's return also highlighted the Pacers' ability to shape-shift and compete, with him and Pascal Siakam executing effectively in the fourth quarter.