Tyrese Halliburton Plays Through Injuries in Game 5
Tyrese Halliburton is not at 100%. Following a 120-109 loss to the Thunder in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle addressed reporters and confirmed that Halliburton is dealing with injuries.
In the game, Halliburton scored only four points and failed to make any field goals during his 34 minutes on the court.
“It’s pretty obvious he’s not 100%,” Carlisle said, adding, “but I don’t think he’ll miss the next game.”
Carlisle noted that Halliburton has been dealing with low-leg injuries he sustained in the second game of the series, though he is still in “the same area.”
Low leg tensions nearly forced him to leave Monday night’s game at halftime, but Halliburton insisted on continuing to play. “It’s the final, guys,” he commented. “I’ve worked my whole life for this, and I want to help my teammates as much as I can. It wasn’t great tonight, but it’s not about me not playing.”
He expressed determination to prepare for Game 6, emphasizing the significance of the moment.
Carlisle observed that Halliburton showed some positive moments in the second half, although his injuries clearly hindered his performance.
Halliburton went 0-6 from the field, including four misses from three-point range. The Pacers contributed to their downfall with a total of 22 turnovers, with Halliburton responsible for three.
“The turnovers have been a big reason for our losses in this series,” Carlisle remarked.
Meanwhile, Thunder small forward Jalen Williams had an outstanding performance, scoring 40 points along with six rebounds and four assists, putting his team one win away from a title.
Despite the injury, Halliburton is committed to playing in Game 6, as the Pacers’ season hangs in the balance. They will need a much-improved performance from him if they hope to push the series to a decisive Game 7 in Oklahoma City.
“If we lose, our season is over,” Halliburton stated. “Our backs are against the wall. We take pride in playing at home in front of our amazing fans. We know they’ll bring a ton of energy in Game 6, and we’re ready for the challenge.”
