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OKLAHOMA CITY — Tyrese Haliburton has built an impressive portfolio and an eye-catching highlight reel, distinguishing himself during the 2025 postseason with remarkable late-game performances that have propelled the Indiana Pacers to extraordinary comebacks.
However, the 25-year-old has not consistently made his presence felt at the beginning of games, which starkly contrasts with his late-game heroics. This peculiarity in his style is viewed by some as a shortcoming, which affects his standing as a star and the so-called “face of the league.”
Typically, this topic is best discussed in informal settings, like sports bars or chat groups. Yet, on Monday, Haliburton’s subdued start went unnoticed in a 120-109 defeat to Oklahoma City in Game 5, which granted the Thunder a 3-2 series lead in the 2025 NBA Finals. Haliburton seemed hindered by an apparent leg injury, raising questions about his performance.
As the Pacers face elimination in Thursday’s Game 6 back in Indianapolis (8:30 p.m. ET, ABC), much of the conversation will likely center around Haliburton’s health. Beneath these discussions remain critical inquiries about his ability to take command from the first whistle and lead his team toward championship aspirations. It’s a tough reality, but All-NBA award winners are often seen as the leaders of their squads.
Haliburton’s struggles on Monday, both physically and performance-wise, were pivotal in the outcome of Game 5. The Pacers needed his influence more than ever, yet he fell short.
“It’s evident that he’s not at full strength,” remarked Indiana coach Rick Carlisle. “However, I believe he’ll be ready for the next game.”
Haliburton exited the court with 1:56 remaining in the first quarter before returning to the visitors’ locker room. When he re-entered the arena early in the second quarter, his right calf was wrapped and iced.
He returned to action at 8:27 of the second period, with Indiana down 40-29. Although he seemed to be moving decently, Carlisle decided to take him out at 2:38 of the quarter but put him back in at 1:01. By halftime, Haliburton’s numbers from 16:54 of playing time were dismal: zero points, one rebound, two assists, one turnover, 0-for-5 shooting, no free throws, and a minus-16 rating, even worse than the Pacers’ 59-45 deficit at the break.
None of this would have sealed Indiana’s fate if Haliburton had found his rhythm as the game progressed. His knack for saving his best performances for later has been an exhilarating aspect of the Pacers’ playoff journey against Milwaukee, Cleveland, New York, and even in Game 1 against Oklahoma City.
Despite a team-high 17:16 of playing time in the second half, Haliburton’s production only slightly improved: 0-for-1 shooting, four free throws, six rebounds, four assists, two turnovers, two fouls, and a plus-3 rating.
He appeared to float around the action, consuming the shot clock while moving laterally instead of driving toward the basket. Instead of being a pivotal player, he was more of a bystander when the Pacers managed to reduce a 13-point deficit to just two points at 95-93, thanks to Pascal Siakam’s three-pointer with 8:30 left on the clock.
Though he didn’t show any significant signs of discomfort while jumping off his right leg, Haliburton never fully integrated himself into the game, particularly with Lu Dort, Oklahoma City’s strong defender, closely guarding him.
The Pacers turned to backup point guard T.J. McConnell to provide the energy their starter could not muster, showcasing the depth and chemistry of Indiana’s roster. McConnell, along with Siakam and Obi Toppin, instilled a sense of urgency in the Paycom Center crowd, although McConnell’s presence failed to intimidate the Thunder fans.
The Thunder capitalized on Indiana’s 23 turnovers, converting them into 32 points—an imbalance that proved critical for the Pacers.
“I pulled him out briefly towards the end of the first half because he wasn’t moving well, and he looked fatigued,” Carlisle said. “After halftime, we had a conversation about the importance of this opportunity. Few will sit out, even if they’re a bit banged up.”
“Tyrese is a warrior. He has been our foundation all season. He’s a significant reason for our success. I’m not certain what his issue is, but I can see he’s pushing through and giving it all he’s got. We’re fully behind him,” Siakam commented on Haliburton’s determination despite his discomfort and subpar performance.
“This is the NBA Finals. It’s the culmination of my dreams, and I want to be out there competing. I didn’t have my best game tonight, but I’m not considering sitting out. If I can walk, I want to play,” Haliburton stated.
“We need to do a better job of spacing and attacking the basket. That’s crucial for maintaining the game’s tempo. We really stepped it up in the second half but allowed them to continuously score. Twenty-three turnovers against a team like this is a recipe for disaster,” Haliburton reflected on Indiana’s turnovers, which cost them dearly in Game 5.
The discussions surrounding Haliburton that have persisted throughout the postseason, including the initial four games of the Finals, now shift to a more immediate concern. Instead of debating his status as a “superstar” or “just another solid player,” the focus is on the day-to-day updates regarding his right leg.
After Game 2, it was reported that ankle soreness caused Haliburton to limp. Now, it’s tightness in his calf that raises concerns due to the potential for serious complications, such as Achilles issues. Playoff history includes instances like Kevin Durant and Damian Lillard suffering Achilles tears following calf strains. Last year, the Bucks sidestepped a potential disaster by resting Giannis Antetokounmpo amid calf tightness.
Haliburton stated on Monday that his injuries from Game 2 and Game 5 are in “the same area” but expressed his determination to play. Given the precautions NBA medical teams take, if he hits the court, neither he nor the Pacers are expected to panic about his leg.
“Heading back home, there’s no better opportunity than to battle on our home court,” Haliburton said. “Playing a win-or-go-home game in front of our fans will be exhilarating.”
Keep an eye on Haliburton’s leg in Game 6—and on his quest for respect.
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Steve Aschburner has been covering the NBA since 1980. For inquiries, you can email him here, find his archive here, and follow him on X.
The opinions expressed on this page do not necessarily represent those of the NBA, its teams, or Warner Bros. Discovery.
