Overview

• GM Chad Buchanan said Tyrese Haliburton is progressing on schedule after Achilles surgery and has been seen walking without a boot, with team expectations set that he will miss 2025–26.
• Head coach Rick Carlisle said Andrew Nembhard will start at point guard as the primary playmaker and top perimeter defender, with efforts to ease his burden.
• Without Haliburton driving pace, Buchanan signaled stylistic tweaks that could include a slower offense, greater physicality, and potential gains on defense.
• Pacers leadership dismissed the notion of a “gap year,” framing success as daily improvement and competitive intent despite long odds.
• Following Myles Turner’s departure, Indiana’s center rotation is in flux, with Isaiah Jackson and Jay Huff positioned for larger roles alongside a young, returning core.