Indiana Pacers Struggle Amid Injury Woes in 2025 NBA Season

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indiana Pacers are facing significant challenges in the 2025 NBA season, with a record of 1-11 so far. The team has been severely impacted by injuries, leading to a roster that lacks key contributors.

Pascal Siakam has been a standout player, averaging 24.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists. However, his efforts alone are not enough to turn the tide for the struggling franchise. Key players like Tyrese Haliburton and Aaron Nesmith are on the sidelines, contributing to the team’s poor offensive performance, ranking last in field goal percentage at 40.2%.

Head coach Rick Carlisle confirmed that Nesmith has been diagnosed with a knee sprain, expected to sideline him for four weeks. In his absence, the Pacers are likely to rely more on younger players like Ben Sheppard and Jarace Walker, who are still finding their footing in the league.

“It’s been a tough stretch for us,” Carlisle said. “We’re battling injuries and trying to find a rhythm with the players available.”

The Pacers are also attending to other injury concerns, with Bennedict Mathurin, Obi Toppin, Quenton Jackson, and Johnny Furphy all listed as out for upcoming games. T.J. McConnell returned from a hamstring injury but has been unable to provide the spark the team needs.

Meanwhile, the Toronto Raptors are faring significantly better, standing at 7-5. They won their last six of seven games and are currently positioned in the playoffs. With the Pacers trying to regain their momentum, the Raptors seek to continue dominating in their first showdown of the season on Saturday.

As the season progresses, fans hope the Pacers can recover and build some consistency. Yet, with injuries mounting and performance dipping, the outlook remains uncertain.