[REVISION HISTORY]

Tyrese Haliburton injury recovery and NBA return

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2026-09-27 21:05 UTC → 2026-09-28 18:55 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Indiana Pacers player Tyrese Haliburton is preparing for his return to the NBA following a 16-month absence caused by a torn Achilles injury sustained during the 2025 NBA Finals. Haliburton initially provided a positive health update, stating he feels physically ready and expects to reach full conditioning during the preseason. He announced a preseason exhibition game in Ames, Iowa, scheduled for October 7 at Hilton Coliseum, a venue where he previously played collegiate basketball. Following the release of the 2026-27 NBA schedule, Haliburton expressed disappointment and shock that his scheduled return game on October 21 against the New Orleans Pelicans will not be broadcast on national television. Speaking on the ‘Numbers on the Board’ podcast, he questioned why a player returning from such a significant injury layoff would not merit national coverage, noting that the league’s national broadcasts for that evening are focused on other matchups, specifically Minnesota at Miami and Golden State at the Lakers. His comments drew criticism from NBA analyst Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo on ‘First Take’. Russo argued that Haliburton lacks the iconic status or championship pedigree to demand such coverage, stating the player is ‘not Jerry West’. Russo further suggested that Haliburton and the Pacers do not currently rank alongside major stars or teams like LeBron James, Victor Wembanyama, or the reigning champion New York Knicks. As During the team’s media day, Haliburton ~~nears his return, reports indicate~~ confirmed he ~~is operating at nearly 100% capacity. However, the Pacers face a transformed Eastern Conference and roster challenges, including~~ has been cleared for an unrestricted return, stating, “I am healthy. I am 100%. There will be no restrictions. I am the ~~loss of Myles Turner~~ source. I am ready to ~~the Bucks. Despite these shifts, Oklahoma City Thunder’s Jalen Williams noted the threat~~ go for the year.” While Pacers ~~pose when Haliburton is healthy, describing him as the team’s ‘center of energy and impact’.~~ general manager Chad Buchanan noted that medical staff will monitor his workload, there are no immediate limitations on his participation in training camp.

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