The Indiana Pacers face a challenging 2024-25 NBA season as Tyrese Haliburton remains sidelined, dimming their championship prospects. Nevertheless, head coach Rick Carlisle is determined to keep the team competitive, relying heavily on their All-Star forward Pascal Siakam Pacers closer role to step up in Haliburton’s absence.
Since arriving via trade, Siakam’s presence has undeniably strengthened the Pacers, but the team acknowledges that he alone cannot carry them to a title. His impact, though, is evident in the Pacers’ postseason achievements.
Siakam’s Influence on Pacers’ Recent Playoff Success
Pascal Siakam has played a pivotal role in leading Indiana to two Eastern Conference Finals appearances and the NBA Finals since joining them. His efforts in the latest playoff run earned him the Eastern Conference Finals MVP award, a recognition even over Haliburton. Notably, Siakam’s leadership style is team-oriented rather than self-centered, which has earned praise from Carlisle.
I give [Pascal Siakam] all the credit in the world,
Carlisle stated.
He’s a great leader on our team. He’s made tough adjustments where a lot of vet players would have said, ‘Hey, you know, I’ve been an All-Star twice. You’ve got to get more with me.’
—Rick Carlisle, Head Coach
Transitioning Siakam into the Pacers’ Primary Closer
With Haliburton unable to fulfill his usual role as the Pacers’ clutch closer—a position he famously held during the 2025 playoffs—Siakam is set to become the team’s primary figure in closing out tight games. Carlisle has laid out clear expectations for Siakam in this expanded role.
There’s no doubt that he’s going to be our closer,
Carlisle confirmed.
He and Nembhard are going to be involved in a lot of actions to close games.
—Rick Carlisle, Head Coach
The Cameroonian veteran is no stranger to the pressure of being a go-to player, having carried that responsibility with the Toronto Raptors during his peak. Carlisle also expects Andrew Nembhard to contribute alongside Siakam in clutch moments, which provides some shared leadership in the pivotal stages of games.
Carlisle’s Confidence in Siakam’s Leadership and Skills
Carlisle’s respect for Siakam’s abilities and approach makes it easier to plan around him for the upcoming season. Siakam’s willingness to adapt and lead without demanding preferential treatment has impressed the coaching staff.
Pascal Siakam is a great player. He’s convinced the world, I think, at this point. I don’t throw the word ‘great’ around very much. He is a great player,
Carlisle proclaimed. —Rick Carlisle, Head Coach
Siakam’s experience as a primary option was most prominent in the 2019-20 season when he led the Raptors to a 53-19 record after Kawhi Leonard’s departure, earning All-NBA Second Team honors. The Pacers and their fans hope he can replicate similar success and elevate the team’s performance in 2025-26.
Looking Ahead: The Pacers’ Strategy in the Upcoming Season
Despite the setback caused by Haliburton’s absence, Indiana’s strategy revolves around maximizing Pascal Siakam’s leadership and clutch ability to maintain competitiveness. With Siakam and Andrew Nembhard expected to handle crucial moments together, the team aims to preserve its fighting spirit in a tough Eastern Conference.
The coming season will test Siakam’s capacity to lead as a closer once again, but with Rick Carlisle’s confidence and his proven track record, the Pacers remain hopeful of making a deep playoff push.