Tyrese Haliburton cleared for unrestricted return to Indiana Pacers

Tyrese Haliburton is set to return to the Indiana Pacers without restrictions following a year-long absence caused by a torn Achilles tendon suffered during Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. During the team's media day, Haliburton stated, “I am healthy. I am 100%. There will be no restrictions. I am the source. I am ready to go for the year.”

His absence significantly impacted the franchise, as the Pacers fell from a Finals contender to a 19-63 record during the 2025-26 season. Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan noted that while the team will rely on medical staff to monitor his workload, there are no immediate limitations on his participation in training camp.

The return of the star point guard will also allow the team to integrate center Ivica Zubac, who has yet to play a regular-season game with Haliburton. Head coach Rick Carlisle and the front office intend to assess the team's rhythm and chemistry over the first 25 to 30 games of the upcoming season.