Tyrese Haliburton’s Absence Leaves Indiana Pacers Struggling This Season

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indiana Pacers are facing a challenging season as they cope without their star point guard, Tyrese Haliburton, who is sidelined for the entire 2025-2026 NBA season due to an Achilles injury he sustained during the NBA Finals last summer.

As of last night, the Pacers hold a dismal record of 2-13, currently ranking among the league’s worst teams. Coach Rick Carlisle and the Pacers are struggling to replicate the success of the previous season, when they boasted the top offensive rating in the NBA. This year, their offensive rating has plummeted, landing at second-worst in the league at 105.5.

Haliburton’s absence has been particularly evident in the team’s offensive dynamics. Known for pushing the pace and facilitating the game, Haliburton’s unique style has significantly impacted the Pacers’ performance. Carlisle emphasized how crucial Haliburton is to the team’s success, stating, “He is the engine that drives our offense.”

Other players, including Andrew Nembhard and T.J. McConnell, have filled the void, but they struggle to match Haliburton’s level of playmaking. Nembhard’s performance, particularly in pick-and-roll situations, has been less effective, as defenses adapt to a less potent offensive threat.

In addition to offensive woes, the Pacers have been plagued by injuries to key players, including Myles Turner and Benedict Mathurin, further complicating matters. This lack of stability on the roster has left Indiana searching for answers as they attempt to navigate through this tough season.

The consensus among fans and experts is clear: without Haliburton’s talent and leadership on the court, the Pacers’ season is in jeopardy. “This is more than just missing a player; it’s about missing the heart of our team,” a Pacers fan expressed in a recent social media post. The struggle continues as Indiana aims to rebound from this difficult start and find new ways to produce magic without their star point guard.