The Indiana Pacers received a major relief after an MRI confirmed Tyrese Haliburton's right ankle injury is minor. Head coach Rick Carlisle provided the positive update following the team's 117-119 preseason loss to the Atlanta Hawks on October 10, assuring fans the two-time All-Star's recovery from a prior Achilles tear remains on track.
Haliburton tweaked the ankle during his preseason debut on October 7, a game where the Pacers beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 123-112. He posted seven points, six rebounds, a steal, and two blocks in that contest. The incident caused concern because Haliburton is working his way back from a right Achilles tear that cost him the entire previous NBA season.
Speaking to reporters before the Hawks game, Rick Carlisle delivered the good news. "He was limited yesterday in practice," Carlisle said. "He's doing better each day. They did an MRI of this, and everything looks really good." The coach specifically addressed the status of Haliburton's surgically repaired Achilles, a key point for the franchise's long-term plans.
"The Achilles looks great," Carlisle added. "All the doctors looked at it and it's just gonna be a matter of him working through it." Haliburton was even present for the October 10 matchup, participating in pregame warmups at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The plan is for him to return to full practice on Monday, October 12.
The Pacers have a clear timeline for their star guard's return. He will be re-evaluated after Monday's practice to determine his availability for the team's next preseason fixture, an away game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 13. Carlisle expressed optimism about a quick return.
"We're hopeful that he practices Monday and plays Tuesday," the coach stated. If Haliburton isn't cleared for the Thunder game, the fallback plan is to have him ready for the following preseason contest on Friday. This cautious approach prioritizes his long-term health over a single exhibition game.
Haliburton's health is the single most important factor for Indiana's upcoming season. Before his major injury, he was establishing himself as one of the league's premier playmakers and offensive engines. A minor ankle issue is a manageable setback, but the clean bill of health for his Achilles is the real headline.
It allows the team to breathe easy and continue building chemistry during the preseason. The Pacers have shown offensive firepower in their two preseason games, but Haliburton's court vision and scoring raise the entire roster. Getting him reps before the regular season tips off is important for rhythm. His ability to run the pick and roll, create open three-point looks, and control the pace is irreplaceable.
The focus now shifts to his integration. The preseason results, including the recent narrow loss to Atlanta, are secondary to player health and system implementation. Ensuring Haliburton is 100% confident in his body and his game is the primary goal for Carlisle and his staff over the next week.
