Tyrese Haliburton to Miss Entire 2025-26 Season After Achilles Injury

The Indiana Pacers’ star guard, Tyrese Haliburton, suffered a torn Achilles during Game 7 of the playoffs, ending the team’s championship hopes and delaying his return to the court. Following the injury, the team announced Haliburton will sit out the entire 2025-26 NBA season to prioritize proper recovery.

Team president Kevin Pritchard emphasized the importance of allowing Haliburton ample time to heal, noting that rushing back too soon could cause further damage. Achilles injuries often require up to a year for full recovery, and the Pacers are committed to giving Haliburton the necessary time.

While some athletes have returned from Achilles tears sooner—such as quarterback Kirk Cousins, who was back in 11 months—the Pacers prefer a cautious approach. If Haliburton’s recovery aligns with typical timelines, he might return at the start of the 2026-27 season, roughly a year and a half after his last game.

The team’s investment in Haliburton is significant. Signed to a five-year maximum extension during the 2023 season, his contract runs through the 2028-29 campaign. Given his age (25), the Pacers are understandably eager to ensure he makes a full recovery and returns at peak performance.

Haliburton’s injury occurred during a crucial playoff game, and the team is prioritizing his health over short-term gains to secure his future with the franchise.