Tyrese Haliburton is back on the court for the Indiana Pacers, directing their offense with the playmaking ability that made him central to their run to the 2025 NBA Finals.
Tyrese Haliburton’s Comeback: Key Highlights
Haliburton is averaging 9.5 assists per game, ranking second in the NBA following his return from a right Achilles tendon tear.
The Indiana Pacers rank first in passes per game (331.3), third in assists (29.3) and fifth in fast-break points (19.5).
Haliburton has reunited with Pascal Siakam in the pick-and-roll while continuing to run head coach Rick Carlisle’s fluid offensive system.
The 26-year-old is still rebuilding his conditioning but has already shown flashes of the form that helped Indiana reach the 2025 NBA Finals.
Tyrese Haliburton Makes His Return After Achilles Injury
His return follows months of rehabilitation after suffering a right Achilles tendon tear during Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. After experiencing the highs of competing for a championship and the setback of a season-ending injury, Haliburton has returned with a renewed appreciation for the game.
Speaking to Yahoo Sports, the 26-year-old reflected on what it means to play alongside his teammates again. “It means a lot to be back out here,” Haliburton said, explaining that the experience has given him a new perspective and made him especially grateful to be playing again.
Haliburton Reunites With Pascal Siakam in Pacers’ Offense
Haliburton has quickly resumed his role as the Pacers’ offensive playmaker, renewing his pick-and-roll partnership with Pascal Siakam and bringing back his self-lob play to effective results.
Under head coach Rick Carlisle, Indiana continues to operate a fast-moving offense built around quick ball movement, intelligent running and attacks at the rim. The addition of center Ivica Zubac has also strengthened the team’s ability to attack the basket.
The Pacers’ offensive numbers reflect the effectiveness of their approach. Ahead of their matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, scheduled for 7 p.m. ET on ESPN, Indiana ranks third in the NBA in assists per game at 29.3, fifth in fast-break points at 19.5, and first in passes per game at 331.3.
All three figures have improved from last season, underlining how the Pacers have continued to build on their playing style with Haliburton back in the lineup.
Tyrese Haliburton Still Working to Regain Full Fitness
Despite his strong return as a playmaker, Haliburton is still working to rebuild his physical conditioning after missing the entire season with his Achilles injury. The Pacers guard identified stamina and leg strength as the biggest areas he needs to improve as he works towards regaining his previous form.
“The cardio part of it is a big thing,” Haliburton said. “But just getting my legs back is the biggest thing.”
Even while continuing to build his fitness, Haliburton is showing flashes of the playmaking and offensive control that helped Indiana reach the 2025 NBA Finals. His return has given Carlisle’s system its familiar orchestrator, with his passing and renewed chemistry with Siakam helping the Pacers maintain their high-tempo approach.
As Haliburton continues to regain his form, Indiana will look to build on its improved offensive numbers with its leading playmaker back on the court.