Tyrese Haliburton will take the court for Game 4 of the NBA Finals tonight, despite recent concerns about a lower leg injury. The Indiana Pacers’ star guard is making headlines with his impressive performance so far, setting a new record for the most points scored in the Finals series opener without a free throw attempt.
Haliburton’s presence on the injury report for Game 4 is absent, easing worries over his health ahead of tonight’s matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder. As the Pacers push closer to a championship title, Haliburton’s unique style and leadership are proving crucial in this high-stakes series.
Haliburton’s Injury Scare and Impact on the Court
Following Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, fans noticed Haliburton limping, which triggered speculation about the severity of his injury. However, Haliburton reassured everyone by referring to it as “just a lower leg thing.” His quick return and dominant display in Game 3 confirmed his resilience, as he sliced through the Thunder’s defense with precision and flair. His ability to score 53 points over three games without drawing a single foul demonstrates his remarkable efficiency and control amidst tough competition.
The significance of his injury status is heightened by the demanding physicality of facing a Thunder squad that boasts MVP-level talent and one of the league’s best defenses. Despite these challenges, Haliburton has remained a consistent offensive force while managing his health carefully.
Record-Breaking Performance Without Free Throws
Haliburton’s budding legend includes the record for the highest point total in a Finals series opener without any free throw attempts. Through three games, he amassed 53 points, surpassing previous marks held by notable players:
53 — Tyrese Haliburton
51 — Patty Mills
50 — Brian Shaw
44 — Danny Green
Most points with 0 free throw attempts in a Finals:53 — Tyrese Haliburton 51 — Patty Mills 50 — Brian Shaw 44 — Danny GreenEthical. pic.twitter.com/iacaKvkFAS — StatMuse (@statmuse) June 12, 2025
This statistic underlines Haliburton’s ability to excel without relying on the traditional advantages of drawing fouls. His style involves using agility and savvy rather than physical contact to break down defenses, which adds a fascinating layer to his dominance in the series.
Supporting Roles and Team Health Ahead of Game 4
Aside from Haliburton’s status, other members of the Pacers are approaching full strength. Myles Turner returns after recovering from the flu, a welcome addition as the team braces to match up with the formidable Oklahoma City Thunder center, Chet Holmgren. While rookie Jarace Walker remains sidelined with a sprained ankle, his steady rehabilitation hints at a possible return in the near future, though he is confirmed out for tonight’s contest.
These developments give Indiana a near-complete lineup and bolster their strategic depth, leaving Oklahoma City scrambling for solutions to their growing problems against a Pacers team that seems more prepared and motivated with every game.
How Haliburton’s Leadership Elevates the Pacers
Tyrese Haliburton has not only delivered standout individual performances but has also emerged as the team’s emotional and tactical leader. His competitive edge turns the pressure of facing a 68-win Thunder team into actionable fuel, fostering extra film study and intense preparation within the Pacers’ locker room. This restless focus contributes to their increasingly cohesive and effective gameplay.
After his impressive Game 3 tally of 22 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds, Haliburton confronted critics who doubted his early quieter approach to the series. His clutch plays and poise under pressure inspire confidence among teammates, who rally around his “don’t take this for granted” mindset. This collective resilience has been key in turning tense game moments into opportunities for control and execution.
Haliburton’s composed leadership transforms Indiana’s potential into palpable momentum, elevating the squad at a pivotal point in franchise history, as they stand just two wins away from securing their first NBA championship.
What the Future Holds for Tonight’s Crucial Game
With Game 4 underway, the Oklahoma City Thunder face the daunting task of containing a player they have yet to figure out. Haliburton’s rising confidence and command make him increasingly dangerous, especially against a defense that has struggled to adjust. The Pacers’ combination of near-full roster strength and Haliburton’s health reassurance prime Indiana for a potentially dominant performance.
The series trajectory may hinge on whether the Thunder can devise new strategies to disrupt Haliburton’s rhythm or if Indiana’s star will continue his streak of efficient, free throw-free scoring. Given the current state of play, it might take more than tactics — perhaps even a miracle — for Oklahoma City to wrest control of the Finals away from the Pacers.