Indiana Pacers’ 2025-26 Season Preview
The 2025-26 NBA season has kicked off, prompting a detailed analysis of the Indiana Pacers’ prospects this year. Following a successful previous season where they clinched a 50-32 record and reached the finals, ultimately falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Pacers face significant challenges ahead.
Impact of Tyrese Haliburton’s Injury
One major setback is the absence of All-NBA point guard Tyrese Haliburton. Haliburton, known for his unique playmaking abilities, suffered an Achilles injury, which not only affected the team’s championship run last season but also significantly impacts their 2025-26 season. The Pacers have confirmed that Haliburton will not return this year, focusing instead on his full recovery. This loss diminishes their chances of replicating last season’s newfound success, as he was the driving force behind their offensive schemes, setting up teammates and leading the team in scoring.
Coaching and Roster Adjustments
In light of Haliburton’s injury, head coach Rick Carlisle is tasked with optimizing the remaining talent on the roster. Despite Myles Turner’s exit to the Milwaukee Bucks, the Pacers have notable prospects to work with. Bennedict Mathurin, the 6th overall pick in the 2022 draft, has been named the starter in Haliburton’s absence and is expected to take on a larger scoring role alongside Andrew Nembhard, whom many consider underrated with his effective defensive skills and reliable offense. Questions arise about whether Nembhard can elevate his game as a facilitator in Haliburton’s stead, as the team must strive to maintain its fast-paced, collective offensive style.
Additionally, the team has brought in Jay Huff from the Memphis Grizzlies, but the absence of Turner’s skills as a defensive anchor leaves Indiana with a less formidable center lineup. With both James Wiseman and Isaiah Jackson also recovering from their Achilles injuries, the Pacers are in a precarious position in terms of depth at this vital position.
Future Considerations
Some analysts speculate whether Indiana should consider tanking this season. They cleverly reacquired their first-round pick for 2026, potentially allowing them to secure a high draft choice for the future. Nonetheless, there remains a strong desire to build on the momentum of last season. The Pacers are still able to lean on All-Star Pascal Siakam while maintaining a solid core of role players like Aaron Nesmith and Obi Toppin, along with their developing talents. Carlisle’s coaching could enable the squad to adapt and perform collectively in light of the absences they face.
Season Outlook
In this best-case scenario, if Siakam returns to All-NBA form and Nembhard develops into an All-Star caliber player, alongside further maturation from their recent draft picks, the Pacers could potentially contend for a playoff spot, especially with the hope of Haliburton’s return in the next season.
However, in the worst-case scenario, the combination of losing Haliburton and Turner could become glaringly evident, leading to a struggle for offensive production with Mathurin and Nembhard having to carry the load. Without sufficient team cohesion and identity, the Pacers’ season may shift towards focusing on acquiring high draft picks instead.
As they commence their 2025-26 campaign on October 23 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the predicted win total stands at 38.5. Given the myriad of challenges and potential pitfalls, fans are left to wonder how resilient this Pacers squad can truly be without their star guard, Haliburton. This season carries the weight of either failure in rebuilding or seizing an opportunity to build upon last year’s promising results.
Keep an eye on their season progress and more previews across the league for insights on all 30 teams this NBA season.
