Tyrese Haliburton has delivered the assurance every Indiana Pacers fan was hoping for: he’s good to go for Game 3 of the NBA Finals.
After footage emerged of Haliburton walking with a limp following the Pacers’ 123-107 Game 2 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, concern quickly spread across social media. The image of Indiana’s franchise star visibly limping off stage sent fans and pundits into speculation overdrive.
On Tuesday, Haliburton quelled those fears.
“I’m fine. Really just a lower leg thing. I’ll leave it at that. I don’t think there’s anything more to elaborate. I feel fine and I’ll be ready to go for Game 3.”
Despite managing the “lower leg thing,” Haliburton’s larger concern may be how to break free from the Thunder’s defensive stranglehold. Through two games, he’s averaging just 15.5 points on subpar shooting, with his usual pinpoint efficiency rattled by Oklahoma City’s swarming perimeter defense.
Luguentz Dort has been his primary shadow, with help from Cason Wallace, Alex Caruso, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Thunder’s defensive scheme has disrupted Haliburton’s rhythm, limiting his effectiveness as a playmaker and shooter.
The Pacers have committed a staggering 40 turnovers over the first two games. Haliburton, who typically boasts an assist-to-turnover ratio near 9:1, has seen that mark plunge under heavy pressure. Head coach Rick Carlisle was candid and even a bit comical, about his team’s carelessness.
But all jokes aside, Indiana’s chances of reclaiming control in this series hinge on Haliburton. The Pacers are tied 1-1 but need their engine to shift into a higher gear. Pascal Siakam has been consistent, but without Haliburton dictating tempo and stretching defenses, Indiana risks falling behind a disciplined and deep Thunder team.
The good news? Haliburton isn’t just physically available, he’s mentally locked in. He’s reviewing film, preparing adjustments, and understanding the stakes. This is his first Finals appearance, the biggest stage of his life, and he’s not ducking from it.
Despite visible discomfort after Game 2, Tyrese Haliburton confirmed he will play in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, easing fan concerns.
While his production has been stifled by OKC’s elite defense, the Pacers star remains focused and determined to bounce back. His health and leadership are pivotal as Indiana looks to take the lead in this historic Finals series.
