Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton provided an update on his recovery from a torn right Achilles tendon, stressing that he will not rush back to the court.
“I obviously want to be good tomorrow but I know it takes time,” Haliburton told Reuters. “The team has already ruled me out for the year, so I’m in no rush. It’s just about getting 100 percent, not necessarily as fast as I can, but getting 100 percent is important. I don’t want to come back and be 85, 90 percent. I want to be able to come back at 100, so I’m just taking my time through that.”
The two-time All-NBA guard recently reached a milestone in his rehab when he was cleared to walk without a protective boot. He shared on social media that he was finally wearing both shoes again for the first time since undergoing surgery in June.
The injury occurred during the opening quarter of Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Haliburton’s absence loomed large as the Pacers fell short in their first Finals appearance in 25 years.
His setback followed one of the most memorable playoff runs in franchise history. Haliburton guided Indiana past the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and New York Knicks, delivering clutch performances and historic numbers along the way.
During the 2024–25 regular season, he averaged 18.6 points and 9.2 assists per game while shooting 47.3 percent from the field. He also surpassed Chris Paul’s record for the most games with at least 20 points and 10 assists without committing a turnover.
The Pacers have already confirmed Haliburton will miss the entire 2025–26 season. Head coach Rick Carlisle and the front office will rely on offseason additions and younger contributors to help fill the void in his absence.
Achilles injuries typically require nine to 12 months of recovery, with full explosiveness sometimes taking longer to return. Haliburton’s comments suggest he is committed to long-term health over rushing back into action.
Despite the setback, Indiana views Haliburton as its franchise cornerstone. The 25-year-old has established himself as one of the league’s top playmakers, with two All-Star selections and a career average of 17.5 points and 8.8 assists.
