The Indiana Pacers are on the brink. Following a decisive 120-109 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, the Pacers now trail the best-of-seven series 3-2, facing elimination as they head back to Indianapolis for a must-win Game 6. A primary concern for Indiana is the health and effectiveness of their star guard, Tyrese Haliburton, whose performance in Game 5 was visibly hampered by injury.
Game 5 Woes: Turnovers Costly
Game 5 saw the Pacers struggle significantly, particularly in protecting the basketball. Despite cutting an 18-point first-half deficit down to just two points in the fourth quarter, their momentum was repeatedly killed by crippling turnovers. According to Coach Rick Carlisle, the Pacers committed a staggering 23 turnovers throughout the game, which the Thunder converted into 32 points.
A critical sequence late in the fourth quarter underscored this issue, with the Thunder’s defense generating four straight steals, leading directly to eight consecutive points that effectively sealed their victory. Starters like Haliburton and Andrew Nembhard were noted among those struggling with ball security during these crucial moments. Both players and coaches acknowledged that drastically reducing turnovers is paramount if the Pacers hope to force a Game 7. As Pascal Siakam noted, the game quickly “went away from us” after the turnover sequence.
Haliburton’s Injury Battle
Adding to Indiana’s challenges is the condition of Tyrese Haliburton. The two-time All-Star is reportedly dealing with a strained right calf that occurred without contact in the first quarter of Game 5 and may require an MRI. Despite brief trips to the locker room and playing with a wrap on his leg, Haliburton played 34 minutes but had what was described as his worst playoff performance, finishing with just 4 points on an uncharacteristic 0-for-6 shooting from the field.
Visibly hindered, Haliburton struggled to create his own shot but insisted on remaining in the game, contributing 7 rebounds and 6 assists. He stated his commitment to being on the court, emphasizing, “It’s the NBA Finals… If I can walk, then I want to play.” Coach Carlisle confirmed Haliburton is “not 100%” but expects him to play in Game 6.
The two-day break leading into Game 6 provides some crucial time for recovery, a benefit of the modern Finals schedule that allows players dealing with injuries like Haliburton’s a chance to manage their condition compared to the rapid pace of historical Finals. Despite the pain and limitations, the expectation is that Haliburton will suit up, given the stakes.
Other Key Performances and the Road Ahead
While Haliburton struggled, others stepped up in Game 5. Pascal Siakam delivered a strong performance, leading the team with 28 points, including 18 in the second half, along with solid rebounding, assists, and defensive plays. Reserve guard T.J. McConnell provided a much-needed spark in the third quarter, scoring 13 points and facilitating offense.
Now, facing elimination at home in Game 6, the Pacers are in a desperate situation. They must avoid losing consecutive games for the first time since March to keep their championship hopes alive and force a decisive Game 7 back in Oklahoma City. Reviewing film to address the ball-handling issues and finding ways to replicate their second-half offensive rhythm earlier in the game are critical.
The pressure is immense, and the path is difficult, especially against a Thunder team that finished with the league’s best regular season record. Haliburton himself acknowledged the situation: “Our backs are against the wall… everybody has to be prepared.” The ultimate question heading into Game 6 remains whether the Pacers can overcome their turnover woes and get enough production, particularly from a hobbled Tyrese Haliburton, to extend their season.
