Tyrese Haliburton nears return to Indiana Pacers

Tyrese Haliburton is expected to return to the Indiana Pacers for the 2026-2027 NBA season following a torn right Achilles tendon suffered during the 2025 NBA Finals. While reports indicate Haliburton is operating at nearly 100% capacity, the Pacers face a transformed Eastern Conference. During his absence, several teams made significant roster changes, including the rise of the Knicks and shifts in the rosters of the Heat, 76ers, and Hornets.

In addition to roster shifts elsewhere, the Pacers have faced challenges, including the loss of Myles Turner to the Bucks and missed opportunities in recent drafts. Despite these setbacks, Oklahoma City Thunder player Jalen Williams has highlighted the threat the Pacers pose when Haliburton is healthy. Williams noted that Haliburton serves as the team’s center of energy and impact, noting that the Pacers’ fast-paced style and spacing make them difficult to defend.