Sore Calf in Game 5 NBA Finals Loss
Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton played in Game 5 of the NBA Finals in Oklahoma City despite dealing with a sore right calf, which he initially aggravated during the first quarter . Haliburton briefly exited the game early on but returned later in the second quarter with his calf wrapped. Though he played 34 minutes, his effectiveness was limited throughout .
Struggles on Offense
Haliburton posted just 4 points, matching his lowest playoff game output, and it marked the first time in his postseason career he failed to score a single field goal—going 0-for-6 from the field, with only one attempt coming in the second half . Despite these offensive struggles, he contributed six assists and seven rebounds .
Haliburton’s Mindset
“It’s the Finals, I’ve worked my whole life to be here and I want to be out there to compete,” Haliburton said, adding, “If I can walk, then I want to play” . His determination reflects his leadership, though Coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged he wasn’t fully fit, noting that many players are banged up in a Finals series, and the team would monitor Haliburton’s condition for Game 6 in Indianapolis .
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Supporting Cast & Team Response
While Haliburton’s production lagged, the Pacers were buoyed by forward Pascal Siakam, who led Indiana with 28 points . Siakam praised Haliburton’s toughness: “He’s been our rock all year… He’s fighting and he’s going to give us everything he’s got” .
Pacers’ Late Fight & Key Issues
Trailing by double digits in the first half, the Pacers rallied in the second, narrowing the gap to 95–93 with about 8½ minutes left . Still, they couldn’t keep pace as the Thunder executed a 25–16 closing run. Indiana also suffered 22 turnovers, which Oklahoma City converted into 32 points, a major factor in the result .
Implications & Outlook
With the loss, the Pacers trail the series 3–2, and the question looms large: Will a limited Haliburton be able to lead Indiana in Game 6? Their success has historically correlated with his scoring; they’re 6–7 this postseason when he scores 20 or fewer points, but 8–0 when he exceeds that threshold .
Coach Carlisle hinted that backup T.J. McConnell may see more playing time alongside Haliburton to help ignite the offense—though that strategy could impact defensive rotations . The Pacers’ depth, including bench performances from Bennedict Mathurin (27 points) and T.J. McConnell (10 points, 5 rebounds, 5 steals) over the postseason, could also be pivotal if Haliburton continues to be compromised .
Looking Ahead: Game 6 in Indianapolis
With Game 6 scheduled for Thursday in Indianapolis, Haliburton’s recovery status is crucial. The Pacers are banking on him bouncing back. As Haliburton noted postgame: “We have to really cut down on the turnovers… We know we can be better” .
Game 5 Summary
- Final Score: Thunder 120, Pacers 109
- Thunder Key Players: SGA (31), Jalen Williams (40)
- Pacers Top Scorer: Siakam (28)
- Haliburton Stats: 4 pts, 6 ast, 7 reb, 0-for-6 shooting
- Pacers Turnovers: 22 → Thunder capitalized for 32 points
Conclusion
Game 5 highlighted just how vital Tyrese Haliburton is to Indiana’s championship aspirations. His immovable presence despite injury demonstrates his grit—but the Calf issue and lack of offensive spark could tip the scales in favor of Oklahoma City as the series moves back to Indy.