Pacers Face Thunder in Season Opener Amid Injury Challenges

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indiana Pacers kick off their 2025-26 NBA season tonight against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The game starts at 7:30 p.m. ET on October 23, 2025, and will be broadcast on ESPN.

This season marks a significant challenge for the Pacers, who are playing without star guard Tyrese Haliburton, sidelined for the year due to a torn Achilles suffered in the NBA Finals last season. The absence of Haliburton reshapes the team, giving Andrew Nembhard a larger role as the primary playmaker.

Pacers forward Pascal Siakam enters the season with strong preseason performances, hitting 58% of his three-pointers and showing potential to lead his team. Meanwhile, Bennedict Mathurin is poised to take his place as a full-time starter, following impressive outings last season.

Oklahoma City enters the game after a thrilling opener, edging the Denver Nuggets 125-124 in double overtime. Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 35 points, demonstrating the team’s depth despite facing injury challenges. Several key players, including Jalen Williams and Alex Caruso, are unavailable for tonight’s matchup.

Despite the Thunder’s injuries, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle acknowledges the tough competitiveness of Oklahoma City. “They’re still a powerhouse, and we’ll need our best effort to come out on top,” he said.

The Pacers’ first five games this season include crucial matchups against the Memphis Grizzlies and other tough opponents. Fans will be eager to see how Indiana adapts and rises to the challenge without Haliburton.

With a restructured team lineup, the Pacers are aiming to start their season on a high note against a formidable Thunder squad tonight in Indianapolis.