Indiana Pacers All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton revealed details of his recovery strategy following an Achilles tendon tear, explaining how he intends to remain connected with the team throughout the 2025-26 NBA season. Speaking on ESPN’s The Pat McAfee Show, Haliburton discussed his goals for staying involved despite being sidelined for the entire year.
The injury happened early in Game 7 of the Pacers’ NBA Finals loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, ruling Haliburton out for the season well in advance. Although unable to play, he expressed a strong desire to travel with the Pacers to support his teammates as much as his rehabilitation allows.
Maintaining a Presence with the Team During Rehab
Haliburton acknowledged uncertainty about the demands his recovery would place on his availability but emphasized his determination to be near the team.
“I haven’t even thought about what the season will call for,”
he said, according to Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star.
“I probably won’t be traveling as much early in the year depending on what stage of rehab I’m in. But I still want to be around the guys as much as possible. I think I want to take this time to keep growing my mind for the game.”
He also plans to engage closely with the Pacers’ leadership and coaching staff.
“Being around coach (Rick) Carlisle. Sit in on coaches meetings,”
Haliburton shared.
“(Being around team president Kevin) Pritchard, talking to those guys and helping. I feel like I have a pretty decent basketball mind myself. So I’m just trying to help the guys as best as I can. I’m going to be on the bench as soon as I can walk.”
Impact of Haliburton’s Absence on the Pacers’ Prospects
Haliburton’s injury represents a significant setback for Indiana’s ambitions in the summer of 2026. Their top player being out has already influenced roster decisions, with free agent center Myles Turner leaving for the Milwaukee Bucks on a four-season, $108.9 million contract. This departure leaves the Pacers in a vulnerable spot as they seek to rebuild around a recovering star.
With Haliburton unavailable, the Pacers are expected to shift starting shooting guard Andrew Nembhard into the primary point guard role, creating an opening on the wing. Meanwhile, centers Isaiah Jackson, James Wiseman, and Jay Huff are anticipated to compete for the position vacated by Turner.
Looking Ahead: Pacers’ Strategy and Haliburton’s Role
Haliburton’s commitment to remaining engaged with the team throughout his recovery signals his leadership and focus on long-term growth. His involvement in coaching discussions and team strategies points to a mental preparation that could benefit both him and the Pacers once he returns to play.
The team‘s adjustments during his absence, including the internal shifts and roster battles, will shape Indiana’s competitiveness next season. Haliburton’s presence on the bench as soon as physically possible further demonstrates his dedication to contributing despite his physical limitations.