Tyrese Haliburton Ruled Out for 2025-26 Season with Achilles Injury, Pacers Face Uncertainty

Indiana Pacers All-NBA point guard Tyrese Haliburton has been ruled out for the entire 2025-26 season due to an Achilles injury sustained in Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Thunder. His absence significantly lowers the Pacers' playoff chances, as he's described as the 'engine on offense' responsible for playmaking and a large portion of scoring. Head coach Rick Carlisle will start Bennedict Mathurin in Haliburton's place alongside Andrew Nembhard, but the 'glaring' absence of Haliburton's playmaking raises questions about Nembhard's ability to step up and the team's capacity to maintain its fast-paced style. The Pacers, who reacquired their 2026 first-round pick, face speculation about tanking. The best-case scenario involves Nembhard making an All-Star leap and the team remaining competitive, primed to contend again upon Haliburton's return in 2026-27. However, the worst-case sees the team lacking firepower and struggling, potentially leading to a tank. The Pacers' over/under win total is 38.5, with a recommendation to take the under.