The Indiana Pacers are struggling to capitalize on their chances to pull off one of the greatest upsets in NBA history. Despite being heavy underdogs coming into Game 5, they continued to blow opportunities, with Tyrese Haliburton’s health now in question after injuring his right leg.
Haliburton, who averaged 15 points and 7.2 assists per game in the series, labored through the first quarter and was eventually pulled out of the game due to fatigue. His counterpart, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, has been a dominant force, averaging 32.4 points per game.
The Pacers’ problems extend beyond Haliburton’s injury. They also struggled with turnovers, committing 23 in all that led to 32 Thunder points. Coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged that turnovers were the team’s biggest issue, saying “We had 23 turnovers for 32 points. That’s the game. We’ve got to do a heck of a lot better there.”
Pacers forward Pascal Siakam also took responsibility for his own mistakes, admitting he had too many turnovers in the first quarter and needs to be better with the ball.
With the series now one win away from Oklahoma City, the Pacers’ playoff hopes are fading. Despite Haliburton’s optimism that he will play in Game 6, the team’s inconsistent performance has raised doubts about their ability to overcome the Thunder’s strong defense.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6431384/2025/06/17/tyrese-haliburton-pacers-tj-mcconnell-nba-finals