The Indiana Pacers are ranked 16th in the NBA as the 2026 27 preseason begins, a position that reflects cautious optimism about star Tyrese Haliburton's return from a major injury. The team's immediate focus is on preseason preparation after closing the previous campaign with a 121 133 loss to the Detroit Pistons on April 12, 2026, part of a 1 4 run in their final five games.
Bleacher Report's latest power ranking slots Indiana squarely in the middle of the pack at number 16. That spot feels about right for a squad coming off a 19 win season where they missed the playoffs entirely. The ranking hinges almost completely on the health and form of Tyrese Haliburton. His torn Achilles kept him out since Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, a painfully long absence. The Pacers' front office and coaching staff express strong confidence in his rehab progress. But until he proves it on the court against real competition, the league's observers are taking a wait and see approach.
Haliburton isn't just a good player. He's the engine that makes the Pacers' offense run. Without him last season, the team's win total collapsed and their playoff hopes vanished. His partnership with co star Pascal Siakam gives Indiana a dangerous, versatile duo. Siakam brought valuable experience and two way play when he arrived, helping transform the team's ceiling. Haliburton's playmaking and shooting gravity open up the floor for everyone. If he's truly back to his All Star level, this team's offensive rating should skyrocket. The entire season's ambition rests on his shoulders. The Pacers need him to step back into that star role without a minutes restriction.
This group isn't thinking about just making the playoffs. They are hungry to get back to the NBA Finals and win the franchise's first championship. They came within one victory of that title in 2025. That near miss experience, combined with the playoff runs of the last few years, has set a clear standard. Coach Rick Carlisle and his staff have the experience to guide this roster. The goal is to re establish Indiana as an elite team in an Eastern Conference that's expected to be much tougher than last year. It won't be easy. But the talent is there for a deep run if the key pieces stay healthy.
The final stretch of the 2025 26 season was a struggle, providing a stark reminder of how much they missed Haliburton. Their recent form shows one win and four losses. After a 123 94 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on April 9, they dropped their final two games. They fell 104 124 to the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 7 and then 121 133 to the Detroit Pistons on April 12. Other losses in that five game window included a 108 117 defeat by the Cleveland Cavaliers and a 108 129 loss to the Charlotte Hornets. You can review the full schedule and look ahead on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
This preseason is about building chemistry and shaking off that finish. Pascal Siakam's presence remains a huge factor. He helps on both ends of the floor and takes pressure off Haliburton. The team's defense and consistency will be tested early. Preseason games starting this weekend offer the first real look at the new dynamic. Indiana fans are hoping to see the backcourt leader they remember, pushing the pace and creating easy baskets. If that version of Haliburton shows up, the Pacers could quickly climb out of that 16th spot and back into the East's upper tier.
