Image Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Indiana Pacers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder: Who Will Replace Tyrese Haliburton Tonight as the Pacers’ Point Guard Remains Injured

Image Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

The Indiana Pacers open their season tonight against the Oklahoma City Thunder in a rematch of last year’s NBA Finals. The spotlight, however, is less on the rivalry and more on how Indiana will cope without Tyrese Haliburton.

The immediate answer for the Indiana Pacers is Andrew Nembhard. The third‑year guard has shown flashes of maturity beyond his age, particularly in his ability to defend and run the offense with composure. While he doesn’t have Haliburton’s elite vision or scoring punch, Nembhard is steady, disciplined, and capable of keeping the offense organized. Expect him to handle the bulk of the point guard duties, especially in half‑court sets.

The Pacers will also lean on Bennedict Mathurin to shoulder more of the scoring load. Mathurin, entering his third season, has the athleticism and confidence to attack defenses, and his role will expand as a secondary creator. Veteran forward Pascal Siakam is another key piece. Though not a guard, Siakam’s ability to initiate offense from the high post and create mismatches will help Indiana diversify its attack.

Tyrese Haliburton's 2025 clutch playoff run will be in the history books 📚

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How Long Will Tyrese Haliburton Be Out For?

The All‑Star guard, who tore his Achilles in Game 7 of the Finals, is sidelined for the entire 2025‑26 season. His absence leaves a massive hole in the Pacers’ backcourt, both as a scorer and as the team’s primary playmaker. Head coach Rick Carlisle has emphasized that the Pacers won’t try to replace Haliburton with one player alone. Instead, it will be a committee approach.

Andrew Nembhard will run the point, Bennedict Mathurin will be asked to grow into a bigger role, and Siakam will serve as a balancer. Off the bench, T.J. McConnell remains a reliable veteran who can push the pace and provide energy in spurts.

Facing the Thunder, who are coming off a double‑overtime win over Houston, the Pacers will be tested immediately. Oklahoma City boasts Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, one of the league’s premier guards, and a deep supporting cast. Without Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana’s margin for error shrinks, but the game also presents a chance for Nembhard and Mathurin to prove they can rise to the occasion.