As the Indiana Pacers get ready for Game 6 of the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the team has been preparing for an unfortunate scenario. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton suffered a calf injury during Game 5, and he has been trying to work his way back since.
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Indiana has been expecting to be without Haliburton for this crucial game, but it seems that he will try to give it a go. Despite being listed as questionable entering the potential elimination game, Haliburton will play in Game 6.
Having Haliburton on the floor, even limited, is a massive win for the Pacers. Indiana needs its leader on the court, especially given the circumstances of this contest.
This is a gritty move from Halibyrton, but it shows the type of competitor that he is. The star guard understands the situation and is willing to do whatever it takes to help out the Pacers.
Over 21 games in the playoffs this year, Haliburton has averaged 17.9 points, 9.1 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per contest. The star guard has carried this Pacers team throughout the postseason, and he is trying to gut this performance out for his team.
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With Haliburton likely limited, others will need to step up to help carry him. Guys like Pascal Siakam, T.J. McConnell, Ben Sheppard, and Myles Turner will all need to put together strong performances in this game.
The Thunder will likely try to attack Haliburton on defense due to the injury, so Indiana may need to scheme against this plan. The Pacers have been solid on the defensive end of the floor, but this is an entirely different challenge ahead of them.
Indiana will rely on the home crowd to help fuel this game. The Pacers fans have shown out all postseason long, and the team will need their support one more time tonight.
If the Pacers can pull out a win at home, Game 7 would then be played back in Oklahoma City for the title. Game 6 between the two sides is scheduled to start on Thursday night at 8:30 p.m. ET.
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This story was originally published June 19, 2025 at 6:48 PM.