It may feel surprising, but Tyrese Haliburton is officially ruled out for the entire 2025–26 NBA season after suffering a torn right Achilles tendon in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. This might seem at odds with the idea of “fans buzzing” about a potential return—but let’s unpack what’s really happening, clarify the situation, and explore what comes next in a detailed examination of why hope still remains… even if a return won’t happen anytime soon.
What actually happened
- Injury and diagnosis
On June 22, 2025, during Game 7 of the NBA Finals, Haliburton suffered a non-contact tear of his right Achilles a few minutes into the contest. The injury forced him out early and the Pacers ultimately fell 103–91 to the Oklahoma City Thunder (Reuters). - Surgery and official confirmation
He underwent surgery the following day. On July 7, 2025, Indiana’s President of Basketball Operations, Kevin Pritchard, confirmed Haliburton will not play at all during the 2025–26 season. “We would not jeopardize that now,” Pritchard said. “He will not play next year… So don’t get any hopes up that he will play” (Reuters). - Haliburton’s emotional response
From his hospital bed, Haliburton shared a heartfelt message: “Shock… Words cannot express the pain… I know I’ll come out on the other side of this a better man and a better player.” He also asserted, “I’d do it again… to fight for this city and my brothers.” (The Sun).
Why “return buzz” might exist—even if misleading
- Confusion over timeline: Some headlines or fan speculation might suggest Haliburton is on the verge of returning—but in fact, his recovery timeline is measured in months to a full year, not weeks.
- Optimism around resilience: Quotes from team executives and coaches—including Rick Carlisle—express confidence that he “will be back better than ever,” which may be interpreted by fans as implying imminent return (Reddit, Reuters).
- Emotional fan reaction: His arrival back to Indiana by wheelchair was met with cheers from supporters, fueling emotional optimism that his comeback is already underway—even if the timeline is long (New York Post).
Haliburton’s evolution before the injury
A season for the ages
- In the 2024–25 regular season, Haliburton averaged 18.6 points, 9.2 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game across 73 contests, earning All-NBA Third Team honors (Reuters).
- In the playoffs, he posted about 14.0 PPG, 5.9 APG, and 4.6 RPG during Indiana’s historic run to the Finals (Reuters).
Clutch performances
- He produced several unforgettable moments: a game‑winner with 0.3 seconds remaining against the Bucks in the conference playoffs; zero‑turnover games with 30+ points and 15+ assists; and buzzer‑beaters in multiple rounds. His stat line against Miami (33 pts, 15 ast, 0 turnovers) was historic and unprecedented in NBA history (Wikipedia).
Efficiency mastery
- Reddit fans and analysts frequently highlighted his elite efficiency: since December of 2024 and into the postseason, Haliburton averaged approximately 19 pts, 9 apg, 1 turnover per game with TS% over 70%, drawing comparisons to Steve Nash (Reddit).
The road to recovery: What to expect
Achilles tendon injury in context
- Historically, NBA players who suffer torn Achilles injuries have a 44–64% chance of playing at least two years post-surgery, many experiencing a decline in performance. But outcomes vary widely (Axios).
Pacers’ cautious approach
- The franchise’s plan is conservative: they’re allowing Haliburton to fully heal before returning to the court. No official timetable is given beyond that—but the language indicates a likely return in the 2026–27 season, not earlier (Newsweek).
Focus on rehabilitation
- Haliburton is reportedly working with top-tier rehab specialists, focusing not just on physical conditioning but also nutrition, mental health, and balancing strength/mobility. Team statements emphasize a long‑term view of getting him back to peak form, not rushing a comeback (mtsoocer).
Why the hype, despite the absence?
1. Emotional attachment and loyalty
Fans remain deeply connected to Haliburton’s identity as the heart and floor general of the Pacers. He delivered clutch wins, charismatic leadership, and helped lead an underdog team to the Finals. That inspires belief in his return—even if delayed.
2. Public statements of confidence
Kevin Pritchard and Rick Carlisle consistently stress they believe Haliburton will return stronger than ever, potentially restoring him to All-NBA form. That optimism can easily be misread as “imminent” return (KCCI).
3. Fan speculation and rumors
Social media has churned speculation like “#HalibanStrong” and projections that he could return late in the 2026 season—or even in early 2026 rumors suggesting a 2027 comeback (mtsoocer).
Implications for the Pacers
Immediate outlook (2025–26 season)
- Without Haliburton and now losing Myles Turner in free agency, Indiana faces an uphill battle. They must rely more heavily on veterans like Buddy Hield (if retained) and young talent like Andrew Nembhard and Bennedict Mathurin (mtsoocer).
- Their front office is likely exploring trades or free agent signings to fill the void.
Looking ahead (2026–27 beyond)
- If Haliburton returns healthy and effective, the Pacers could return to contention in the Eastern Conference. He’s still just 25, with many peak years ahead.
- A successful comeback could cement Haliburton’s status as one of the league’s elite point guards.
Summary of key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Injury | Torn right Achilles tendon, Game 7 of 2025 NBA Finals (June 22, 2025) |
| Surgery | Performed June 23 at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York |
| Duration of absence | Confirmed out for entire 2025–26 season |
| Return timeline | No rush; likely earliest is 2026–27 season |
| Performance pre-injury | 18.6 PPG, 9.2 APG, All-NBA Third Team, elite postseason |
| Fans’ “buzz” | Roots in optimism, emotional connection & statements of resilience |
| Team strategy | Focus on recovery, not current performance; building around youth & trades |
Final thoughts
While it’s absolutely true that Tyrese Haliburton will not return during the upcoming 2025–26 NBA season, the buzz among fans stems from deep emotional investment in his return narrative, confidence expressed by team leadership, and hope for a triumphant comeback. Those hopes are powerful—and not misplaced—but they need to be tempered with realism.
Achilles injuries are serious, and a successful return requires time, patience, and smart management. The Pacers are making that their priority. Haliburton’s resilience, leadership, and elite playmaking remain intact off the court, and if he follows a strong rehab path, a return to form is possible in 2026–27.
The story isn’t over—it’s just paused. And when he does return, if events unfold favorably, it could mark one of the most emotional comebacks in recent NBA history.
