Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton Plays Through Calf Injury in NBA Finals Game 5

Tyrese Haliburton, the Indiana Pacers' All-Star point guard, has been battling right calf tightness during the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, which has noticeably impacted his performance, especially in Game 5. Haliburton briefly left the game for treatment after aggravating the injury, returning with his lower leg wrapped, and scored zero points in the first half, marking the first time in his playoff career he was held scoreless in a half. Despite his struggles, including limping on the court and missing several shots, Haliburton continued to play significant minutes and contributed assists, although the Pacers faced challenges moving the ball and generating offense against the Thunder's defense. The injury has been an ongoing issue throughout the series, with Haliburton previously limping after Game 2 and acknowledging the lower leg discomfort without revealing extensive details. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle has acknowledged the injury but remained cautiously optimistic, emphasizing Haliburton's importance to the team’s chances of forcing a Game 7 as the series continues. The Pacers will need Haliburton healthy and effective moving forward to have a realistic chance at overcoming the Thunder in the finals.