Haliburton’s Grit Shines Through Pain: Coach Rick Carlisle Admits Star Guard Isn’t at 100% — But Refuses to Sit Out Crucial Next Game Amid Playoff Push
INDIANAPOLIS — With the postseason stakes growing higher and each possession heavier than the last, Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle delivered a sobering but stirring update on his All-Star point guard, Tyrese Haliburton. Despite battling visible discomfort throughout the series, Haliburton is expected to suit up for the next pivotal game—injury or not.
“He’s not 100%. It’s pretty clear,” Carlisle told reporters after practice on Monday. “But I don’t think he’s going to miss the next game.”
Haliburton, who’s been dealing with a lingering hamstring strain and nagging knee soreness since Game 2, has continued to lace up and lead his team despite limited mobility and reduced explosiveness. While his numbers have dipped slightly—averaging 16.4 points and 7.8 assists over the last three games—his leadership and presence on the floor have been invaluable.
“He’s the engine of our team,” said veteran forward Pascal Siakam. “Just having him out there changes everything—the way teams defend us, the confidence we have, the tempo we play with. Tyrese at 70% still makes us better.”
Fans have taken note too. Social media erupted after Haliburton gutted through a 39-minute performance in Game 4, visibly limping at times but still managing to dish out 11 assists and hit a clutch three late in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
When asked about his condition, Haliburton shrugged off concern.
“This is the playoffs,” he said. “Nobody’s feeling great right now. If I can walk, I can play. Simple as that.”
The Pacers currently trail 3-2 in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics, and Game 6 looms large. The outcome could swing the franchise’s momentum for years to come, and Haliburton’s determination to remain on the court—even at personal risk—has only deepened the respect he commands inside the locker room.
Carlisle emphasized that the team’s medical staff continues to monitor the situation closely, and while they don’t intend to jeopardize Haliburton’s long-term health, the final decision rests with the player.
“He knows his body. He’s as smart as they come,” said Carlisle. “And frankly, he wants this. He wants to fight with his brothers.”
For a franchise that has fought to reclaim its identity since the Paul George era, Haliburton’s resilience and refusal to fold under pressure might just be the spark Indiana needs to keep its championship hopes alive.
Game 6 tips off Wednesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and all eyes will be on No. 0—hurting, but still hooping.
