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Professional basketball

Haliburton's Availability for Game 6: A Long Shot, But Not Out of the Question

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Indiana Pacers' star guard Tyrese Haliburton is determined to play in the win-or-else Game 6 against the Oklahoma City Thunder, despite a strained right calf that has rendered him questionable for the contest. As the Pacers' season hangs in the balance, Haliburton is trying every treatment he can think of to alleviate the injury, from hyperbaric chambers to massage therapy. With the team's coach, Rick Carlisle, citing the need for further testing before making a final decision, Haliburton's availability for Game 6 remains a mystery.

Key Takeaways:

  • Haliburton played 34 minutes in Game 5 despite a strained right calf, but struggled with his shooting, missing all six of his field goal attempts.
  • The Pacers discussed not letting Haliburton play in the second half of Game 5, but he vetoed those plans and played 17 minutes, leading the team in rebounds and assists after halftime.
  • Haliburton is trying a range of treatments, including hyperbaric chambers, needles, massage, electronic stimulation, and special tape, to help alleviate his calf strain.
  • If Haliburton cannot play, Tyler J McConnell is likely to take his place in the starting lineup, with coach Rick Carlisle praising McConnell's ability to handle the ball and push the pace.
  • Haliburton has a history of playing through injuries, including a hamstring issue that forced him to miss the final games of the Eastern Conference finals a year ago.
  • The Pacers have a backup plan in place if Haliburton is unable to play, with forwards Obi Toppin and Pascal Siakam expressing confidence in the team's ability to adapt.

Statistics:

  • Tyrese Haliburton has played 34 minutes in Game 5 despite a strained right calf, his longest jugar of the season.
  • Haliburton has attempted 12 field goal shots in the playoffs, making only 3.
  • The Pacers have struggled without Haliburton, losing 3 of their last 4 games.
  • Tyler J McConnell has averaged 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists per game in the playoffs.
  • The Pacers' season is on the line in Game 6, with a win-or-else scenario against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Sources:

  • AP Basketball Writer: Tim Reynolds
  • AP News INDIANAPOLIS â" Tyrese Haliburton would not be playing on Thursday if this were a regular-season game.

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