Haliburton Out: Pacers Star Set for Full Season Absence After Knee Injury

Pacers Star Tyrese Haliburton Faces Lengthy Recovery After Achilles Tear

Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton will miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season following prosperous surgery to repair a torn right Achilles tendon. The injury occurred during Game 7 of the NBA Championship Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder last month, a game the Pacers ultimately lost 103-91.

The 25-year-old All-Star suffered the non-contact injury while driving to the basket in the first quarter, instantly signaling distress and requiring assistance off the court. Pacers President Kevin Pritchard confirmed the severity of the injury and the extended timeline for recovery.

“The surgery went well,” Pritchard stated to WISH-TV. “He will not play next year though. We would not jeopardise that now.So don’t get any hopes up that he will play.”

Haliburton, a two-time All-Star, was a key contributor for the Pacers this past season, averaging 18.6 points, 9.2 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 steals across 73 regular season games. He continued to play through a calf strain sustained in Game 5 of the Finals, demonstrating his commitment to the team.

This injury marks the third notable Achilles tendon rupture during the recent NBA playoffs, with Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum and Milwaukee Bucks’ Damian Lillard also sustaining the same injury. The recovery process for an Achilles tear is notoriously demanding, often requiring a full year or more for players to regain their previous form, as seen with Kevin Durant’s year-long absence following his 2019 injury.

How dose Haliburton’s injury impact the Pacers’ championship contention for the 2025-2026 season?

Confirmed Diagnosis & Timeline for Tyrese Haliburton’s Injury

The Indiana Pacers have received devastating news regarding star point guard Tyrese Haliburton. Initial reports indicated a knee issue, but further evaluation has confirmed a critically important injury requiring a lengthy recovery period. Sources close to the team now confirm haliburton is expected to miss the entire 2025-2026 NBA season. This is a major blow to the Pacers’ championship aspirations and the fantasy basketball community alike. The injury, sustained during offseason training, involves damage to his left meniscus.

Details of the Injury & Surgical Procedure

Haliburton underwent a thorough examination on August 3rd, 2025, revealing a torn meniscus. The team opted for a surgical repair, a procedure that typically necessitates a recovery timeline of several months.While the exact nature of the meniscus tear wasn’t publicly disclosed, the decision to undergo surgery suggests it wasn’t a minor issue.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects:

Injury: Torn left meniscus

Procedure: Surgical repair

Expected Recovery: Full 2025-2026 NBA season absence

Date of Surgery: August 3rd, 2025

The Pacers medical staff, in consultation with leading orthopedic specialists, determined that a full recovery was the priority, even if it meant sacrificing the entire season. Rushing back could risk further damage and potentially jeopardize Haliburton’s long-term career.

Impact on the Indiana Pacers’ Season Outlook

Haliburton’s absence dramatically alters the Pacers’ outlook for the upcoming season. He was the team’s leading scorer and primary playmaker, averaging 20.1 points and 11.7 assists per game in the 2024-2025 season. his ability to control the tempo and create scoring opportunities for his teammates was crucial to the Pacers’ success.

Key implications include:

1. Increased Pressure on Buddy Hield: Hield will likely see a significant increase in his offensive responsibilities. He’ll need to step up as a consistent scoring threat and ball-handler.
2. Possibility for Bennedict Mathurin: This injury presents a major opportunity for Mathurin to establish himself as a key player. He’ll likely see increased minutes and a larger role in the offense.
3. Shift in Offensive Strategy: The Pacers may need to adjust their offensive strategy, potentially focusing more on a committee approach rather than relying heavily on Haliburton’s playmaking.
4. Impact on Playoff Contention: The Pacers were considered a potential contender in the Eastern conference.Haliburton’s absence significantly lowers their ceiling and makes a deep playoff run much more challenging.

Fantasy Basketball Implications: Who to Target?

For fantasy basketball players, Haliburton’s injury creates both a void and opportunities. He was a consensus top-10 pick in many leagues.

Here’s a look at potential replacements and players to target:

Buddy hield: Immediately becomes a valuable asset, especially in points and three-pointers categories.

Bennedict Mathurin: A potential breakout candidate with increased opportunity. Monitor his performance closely.

T.J. McConnell: Will likely see an increase in minutes and assist opportunities.

Potential Trade Targets: Keep an eye on potential trade acquisitions the Pacers might make to fill the void at point guard. Names to watch include De’Aaron Fox and Trae Young, though acquiring either would require a significant package.

Haliburton’s Recent Performance & Career Trajectory

Tyrese Haliburton has quickly established himself as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars. Drafted by the Sacramento Kings in 2020, he was traded to the Pacers in 2022 and immediately flourished. His remarkable court vision, accurate passing, and improving scoring ability have made him a fan favorite and a key component of the Pacers’ rebuild.

2023-2024 season: Averaged 20.1 points, 11.7 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game.

All-Star Selection: Named an All-Star in 2024 and 2025.

* Rising Star: Widely regarded as one of the league’s most promising young point guards.

prior to the injury, Haliburton was focused on improving his strength and conditioning during the offseason, aiming to become even more durable and explosive. This injury is a setback, but his dedication to the game suggests he’ll work tirelessly to return to form.

Pacers’ Response & Team Statement

The Indiana Pacers released a statement expressing their support for Haliburton and their confidence in his recovery.