Tyrese Haliburton Out for 2025-26: How Will the Pacers Replace Their Star?

By Edcel Panganiban July 09, 2025 09:30

The Indiana Pacers face a daunting challenge heading into the 2025-26 NBA season after star guard Tyrese Haliburton was ruled out for the entire year due to a torn Achilles tendon. The injury occurred in the first quarter of Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, abruptly ending Haliburton’s breakout postseason and leaving the Pacers without their primary playmaker and offensive catalyst. Team president Kevin Pritchard confirmed the news on July 7, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to a full recovery rather than rushing the 25-year-old back onto the court.

Haliburton’s impact on the Pacers has been transformative. In the 2024-25 regular season, he averaged 18.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game across 73 contests, showcasing his elite playmaking and scoring ability. His clutch performances in the playoffs were instrumental in Indiana’s surprising run to the Finals, including a memorable buzzer-beater in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks that echoed Reggie Miller’s iconic moment at Madison Square Garden. Haliburton’s leadership and poise under pressure earned him widespread respect, with peers naming him one of the most underrated stars in the league.

The loss of Haliburton leaves a significant void. As Pritchard noted, “Hunter gives us a chance to win every fifth day. Without him, it’s a tougher road.” Correction: That quote is from the Reds’ Hunter Greene article. For Haliburton, Pritchard expressed unwavering confidence in his recovery but acknowledged the immediate challenge: “We would not jeopardize that. The surgery went well, and we have no doubt he’ll come back better than ever. But he will not play next season.” The Pacers are prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains, a prudent approach given the severity of Achilles injuries and the risk of re-injury.

Replacing a player of Haliburton’s caliber is no small task. The Pacers are entering what many expect to be a transitional season, especially after the departure of longtime center Myles Turner, who signed with the Milwaukee Bucks in free agency. Turner’s exit leaves a defensive and rebounding gap, compounding the challenge of losing their floor general. Indiana’s roster will likely lean more heavily on young talents like Jarace Walker and Isaiah Jackson, both of whom offer potential but lack Haliburton’s experience and playmaking prowess.

The Pacers may also look to adjust their offensive schemes, emphasizing a more balanced attack rather than relying on a single star. Veteran players and new acquisitions will be asked to step up, while the coaching staff will need to innovate to maintain competitiveness in the tough Eastern Conference.

The broader NBA community has shown solidarity with Haliburton. The Boston Celtics, who recently endured a similar Achilles injury to star Jayson Tatum, reached out to offer support, highlighting the camaraderie among franchises facing such setbacks. This gesture underscores the difficult road ahead for Haliburton but also the shared hope for a full and successful return.

Tyrese Haliburton’s season-ending Achilles injury is a major blow to the Pacers’ immediate playoff hopes. His absence removes a dynamic playmaker and leader from the lineup, forcing Indiana into a rebuilding or retooling phase. However, the franchise’s cautious approach to his rehabilitation reflects a long-term vision, aiming to preserve the prime years of a player they signed to a max contract through 2029. The upcoming season will test the Pacers’ depth and resilience, but with Haliburton’s proven talent and determination, the hope remains that he will return stronger, ready to lead Indiana back to contention in the near future.