Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton has been ranked the best 26-year-old player in the NBA by Bleacher Report. This recognition comes as the Pacers look ahead to the 2026-27 season, aiming to improve on a recent stretch where they lost four of their last five games, including a 121-133 defeat to the Detroit Pistons on April 12, 2026.
Why is Tyrese Haliburton ranked number one?
Bleacher Report placed Haliburton above other notable stars like Zion Williamson, Darius Garland, and Jaren Jackson Jr. His selection is based on his outstanding performance during the 2024-25 campaign. That season, he averaged 18.6 points, 9.2 assists, 3.5 rebounds, 1.4 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. Those numbers earned him a spot on the All-NBA Third Team.
His career averages in a Pacers uniform are even more impressive, sitting at 19.5 points and 10.1 assists per game. Haliburton signed a massive five-year, $244 million contract extension with Indiana back in July 2023. He is scheduled to make $48,924,624 in the upcoming season.
What is the latest on Haliburton's injury recovery?
The star point guard missed all of last season after tearing his Achilles tendon in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. That injury was a devastating blow for a Pacers team on the verge of a championship. Haliburton described the moment on the "Numbers On The Board" podcast.
"I knew right away because Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was in front of me," Haliburton said. "So I was like how did he kick me?" He added that the emotional impact was severe, stating, "I don't know if I'll ever get over it."
How does his return change the Pacers' outlook?
Haliburton's return completely reshapes Indiana's potential. The team is expected to start a formidable lineup of Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, and Ivica Zubac. That group presents a strong starting five on paper, blending playmaking, scoring, and defense.
His playoff experience is also a major asset. Haliburton has career postseason averages of 17.9 points and 8.4 assists per game. The basketball world is eagerly waiting to see him back on the court. Fans can track the team's progress and his individual stats on our dedicated [stats](/stats) page throughout the season.
What's next for the Indiana Pacers?
The immediate focus is on integrating a healthy Haliburton back into the lineup. His ability to run the offense and create for others will be key for a team that struggled offensively at times last season. The Pacers' recent form, marked by four consecutive losses, highlights the need for his leadership and production.
Indiana opens the 2026-27 regular season on October 21 against the New Orleans Pelicans. That game will be the first major test for the revamped squad. The schedule ahead is challenging, and you can view all upcoming matchups on our [fixtures](/fixtures) section. The Pacers' success this season hinges largely on Haliburton returning to his All-NBA form and staying healthy.
