As the Indiana Pacers prepare for a must-win Game 6 in the 2025 NBA Finals, the biggest question looming over the team and their fans is this: Will Tyrese Haliburton Play in Game 6?
Injury Update: Haliburton’s Calf Strain
Haliburton has been battling a strained right calf that has limited his explosiveness and impacted his performance throughout the series. The injury, originally suffered during the Eastern Conference Finals, flared up again during Game 2 of the NBA Finals. Despite being visibly limited, Haliburton has continued to suit up, pushing through pain and discomfort.
In Game 5, he was clearly not himself. He finished the night without a field goal, going 0-for-6 from the floor, and scored only four points—all from the free throw line. While he contributed with seven rebounds and six assists, his movement and shot selection showed he was playing well below 100 percent.
Coaching Perspective and Team Strategy
Indiana head coach Rick Carlisle has praised Haliburton’s toughness but also emphasized the importance of his long-term health. According to team sources, Haliburton will be a game-time decision. The coaching staff is preparing contingency plans whether he plays or not. Carlisle has mentioned that while he expects Haliburton to try and give it a go, he won’t hesitate to pull him early if he sees signs of the injury worsening.
Haliburton’s Own Determination
Haliburton has made it clear that he wants to play. Speaking after Game 5, he said, “If I can walk, then I want to play. I’m doing everything in my power to be ready.” His commitment to his team and to Indiana’s quest for a championship is unquestionable, but desire alone won’t heal a strained calf. The question is not just whether he will play, but whether he can play effectively.
What’s at Stake in Game 6
The Pacers are down 3–2 in the series. A win in Game 6 would force a decisive Game 7 in Oklahoma City. A loss ends their season. With so much on the line, the pressure is enormous. Haliburton’s presence—even at less than full strength—could serve as a major emotional lift for the team and crowd.
At the same time, the coaching staff must be realistic. A hobbled Haliburton could become a liability on defense and may struggle to keep up with Oklahoma City’s fast-paced offense, especially against players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams.
Potential Game Scenarios
| Scenario | Upside | Downside |
|---|---|---|
| Starts & plays ~30 minutes | Leadership, offensive rhythm, emotional boost | Limited movement, defensive lapses |
| Plays limited minutes (15–20) | Manages pain, provides clutch passing | Lacks rhythm, limited impact |
| Doesn’t play at all | No risk of aggravation, clearer team plan | Lack of floor general, energy dip |
Next Man Up: Indiana’s Supporting Cast
Whether Haliburton plays or not, the Pacers need big performances from others. Pascal Siakam must assert himself early and often, especially in mid-range isolations and post-ups. Bennedict Mathurin, one of Indiana’s brightest young talents, could be an X-factor with his ability to score in bunches. Myles Turner will need to stretch the floor while protecting the rim, and Aaron Nesmith must deliver defensively and knock down open shots.
Veteran guard T.J. McConnell is likely to see increased minutes regardless. If Haliburton is forced to sit or is pulled early, McConnell will become the team’s primary ball handler and initiator.
How Indiana Can Adjust
- Spacing and Ball Movement: Without Haliburton’s elite vision, Indiana may lean more on Siakam and McConnell to create offense via dribble penetration and short-roll passes.
- Tempo Control: The Pacers will likely aim to slow the game down to limit transition opportunities for Oklahoma City.
- Defensive Schemes: Expect more help defense and zone coverage to protect Haliburton if he plays limited minutes.
Thunder’s Advantage
The Oklahoma City Thunder have the momentum heading into Game 6. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to dominate the series, and Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren have provided consistent support. If Haliburton is unable to keep up defensively or orchestrate Indiana’s offense efficiently, OKC will look to capitalize early and put the game out of reach before the fourth quarter.
Will He Play?
As of now, all signs point toward Haliburton trying to play. The team has not ruled him out, and his own comments suggest he will push through unless the medical staff intervenes. However, he will not be at full strength. Expect a managed workload, with Haliburton possibly playing 20–30 minutes depending on how he feels.
Key Things to Watch in Game 6
- Pre-game Warmups: How Haliburton moves during shootaround will offer the first real clues about his status.
- Opening Minutes: If he starts, his first few possessions will indicate his level of comfort and mobility.
- Rotations: Carlisle’s substitutions will reveal whether the team is leaning on Haliburton or trying to limit his exposure.
Final Thoughts
This is the biggest game of Tyrese Haliburton’s career to date. Whether he plays at full strength or not, his presence alone could serve as inspiration for his teammates and the Pacers fanbase. But if he pushes too hard and aggravates the injury, it could affect not just the outcome of Game 6 but his future as well.
Indiana’s fate doesn’t rest solely on Haliburton’s shoulders, but his ability to play—both physically and mentally—will set the tone. With the season on the line and a possible Game 7 awaiting, the Pacers need everything Haliburton can offer, even if it’s just grit and leadership from the floor.
Stay tuned. Game 6 is set to be an unforgettable moment—one way or another.
