Tyrese Haliburton criticized by Chris Russo over national TV demands

NBA analyst Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo has criticized Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton following the player's comments regarding the national television broadcast schedule for his upcoming return.

Haliburton, who is set to return from an Achilles injury during the 2026-27 season opener against the New Orleans Pelicans, expressed disappointment that his comeback game would not be featured on national television. Russo responded on ‘First Take’, stating that Haliburton is ‘not Jerry West’ and lacks the iconic status or championship pedigree required to demand such coverage.

Russo argued that the Pacers and Haliburton do not currently rank alongside major stars or teams like LeBron James, Victor Wembanyama, or the reigning champion New York Knicks. Haliburton’s absence due to injury followed the Pacers' loss in the 2025 NBA Finals.