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4mo ago

Pacers Name Nembhard and Mathurin as Starters in Carlisle’s Depth-Focused Overhaul

Rick Carlisle is integrating T.J. McConnell alongside late first-round rookies into a jazz-inspired ‘play hard’ rotation that has already won fan praise.

Image
Jun 22, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle gestures during the first half of game seven of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle speaks to the media after the Pacers defeat the Oklahoma City Thunder during game one of the 2025 NBA Finals at Paycom Center
May 21, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) shoots a game-tying two point shot to send the game to overtime in the fourth quarter against New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson (23) during game one of the eastern conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images.

Overview

  • Tyrese Haliburton will miss the entire 2025-26 season after tearing his Achilles in Game 7 of the NBA Finals, prompting Indiana to reshuffle its backcourt.
  • Andrew Nembhard is set to start at point guard and Bennedict Mathurin at shooting guard as the Pacers shift responsibility away from a single star.
  • Carlisle has emphasized balanced roster construction, saying the modern NBA rewards teams with depth rather than top-heavy superstar lineups.
  • Veteran guard T.J. McConnell and rookies Kam Jones and Taelon Peter will play key supporting roles in a fluid, read-and-react system.
  • The new approach has struck a chord in Indianapolis, with fans praising the Pacers’ unselfish, energetic style.