Coach Rick Carlisle's Indiana Pacers are attempting to run back their 2024-25 NBA Finals appearance with their familiar core led by Tyrese Haliburton, who made a stern injury announcement. Haliburton was fuming after the rival New York Knicks won the 2025-26 title and has his sights set on another strong season judging by his appearance at October 4's Pacers FanJam.
The Pacers' preseason event was held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and led to shrieks of joy and delight as Haliburton was welcomed back after missing all of last season. Haliburton's return was simple but meaningful as he dribbled behind his back and joined his teammates for a light-hearted welcome circle.
Article Continues BelowRick Carlsile welcomes back Tyrese Haliburton to a roar, then Haliburton gets the honor of the Pacers mid-circle shove: pic.twitter.com/Iomlaf4WRe
— Tony East (@TonyREast) October 4, 2026
Haliburton tore his right Achilles tendon in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, a devastating blow as the Pacers lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Pacers have never won an NBA title (although they did win three ABA titles in the 1970s) and came closer than ever with Haliburton leading the offense from his familiar point guard position.
This year's Pacers team will return Haliburton along with three other starters from the Finals team: Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, and Pascal Siakam, with Ivica Zubac starting instead of Myles Turner, who is now with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Achilles injuries are notoriously tough to come back from, meaning Pacers fans are expecting a slow start to the season. Haliburton must protect his health if the Pacers are to expect another deep playoff run. Striking a balance between fans' expectations and his own recovery and return to NBA action could be the toughest battle Haliburton fights this season for Carlisle's team as Indiana seeks a return to NBA Finals glory.