Tyrese Haliburton is back on the court in Indianapolis, and on June 26, 2026 Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan confirmed his recovery is on schedule after a torn Achilles and a bout of shingles.
How is Haliburton’s rehab shaping up?
Buchanan told reporters the All‑Star point guard has been showing up for daily workouts with the team. Video clips released by the Pacers this week captured Haliburton running drills, shooting, and smiling with teammates. The GM highlighted that despite the unexpected shingles flare‑up early in the season, Haliburton’s mood, energy, and charisma remain high. "He looks good," Buchanan said, emphasizing the player’s visible progress.
Why does the Pacers ask for patience?
Haliburton missed the entire 2025‑26 season after tearing his Achilles in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. That injury kept him off the floor for over a year, and the recovery timeline is still uncertain. Buchanan warned fans that even when Haliburton steps back onto the hardwood, he won’t instantly replicate his 2025 playoff form. "You’ll see ups and downs as the season starts," he explained, urging the community to grant the player space to regain his rhythm.
What motivates Haliburton’s comeback?
The Pacers fell short of the playoffs while the New York Knicks captured the NBA title—a team the Pacers eliminated in the previous two postseasons. Buchanan noted that watching the Knicks win has fueled Haliburton’s hunger. The point guard now carries a personal drive to help Indiana return to the postseason, turning the disappointment of missing the 2025‑26 playoffs into extra motivation during his rehab.
When can fans expect to see him play?
The Pacers are targeting a return for Haliburton at the start of the 2026‑27 season. While no exact debut date was set, the organization’s message is clear: the focus is on a sustainable comeback rather than a rushed return. Haliburton’s daily presence in practice, combined with the medical staff’s confidence, suggests he could be ready when training camp opens in early October.
What does this mean for Indiana’s outlook?
If Haliburton regains his pre‑injury level, the Pacers gain a playmaker who can orchestrate the offense, create scoring opportunities, and defend multiple positions. His leadership, paired with a roster that includes emerging talent, could shift Indiana from a rebuilding phase to a legitimate playoff contender. The team’s patience now may pay dividends when Haliburton finally steps back onto the floor.
How will the Pacers manage his minutes?
Buchanan hinted that the coaching staff will monitor Haliburton’s load carefully, likely easing him into games with limited minutes before expanding his role. This approach mirrors league‑wide best practices for players returning from major tendon injuries, aiming to prevent setbacks and ensure long‑term health.
What’s the next step for Haliburton?
The point guard will continue his daily regimen, focusing on strength, agility, and basketball‑specific drills. The Pacers plan to keep fans updated through social media and press releases as the preseason approaches. For now, the message is simple: Haliburton is on track, and Indiana is ready to give him the space he needs to thrive.