The Indiana Pacers entered the 2026 NBA season with hopes of rebounding from a dismal 19‑63 record last year. That record was the result of a deliberate tanking strategy aimed at securing a top draft pick, a plan that ultimately fell short when the pick slipped out of the top four.
Injuries derail early hopes
Just as optimism began to rise, star guard Tyrese Haliburton suffered a hamstring injury early in the campaign. Haliburton, widely regarded as one of the league’s elite playmakers, has been the centerpiece of Indiana’s offense. His absence has been felt immediately, and the team’s record slipped to 3‑6 after the injury.
Compounding the problem, several other players have missed time, prompting questions about the depth of the roster. Fans and analysts alike are asking whether the Pacers have the personnel to survive even a single injury blow in a competitive Eastern Conference.
Roster moves and the Zubac gamble
During the offseason, Indiana made a bold trade, sending a protected draft pick to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for center Ivica Zubac. The protection clause meant the pick would be forfeited if it fell outside the top four, a risk that materialized when the draft order shifted.
Zubac, a solid rebounder and interior presence, was expected to fill the void left by former center Myles Turner. However, his performance so far has been underwhelming. He has struggled to stretch the floor, making only one three‑pointer in his 11‑year career, and his defensive impact has not matched Turner’s prime years.
Supporting pieces and lingering doubts
Beyond Zubac, the Pacers added depth wing Kelly Oubre Jr., who provides occasional scoring off the bench. Yet the overall talent level remains a question mark. Advanced metrics do not suggest the team would collapse without Haliburton, but the loss of his playmaking has exposed a lack of secondary scoring options.
Betting markets reflect the uncertainty, with Indiana listed as the ninth‑best team in the East at 18‑1 odds on FanDuel. The Pacers sit outside the top tier of Boston, New York, and Philadelphia, and even the secondary group of Toronto, Detroit, and Cleveland.
Looking ahead
The Pacers must find ways to win games despite the injuries. Coach Rick Carlisle’s adjustments and the development of younger players will be critical. If Haliburton returns to full health, his ability to set screens for big men like Zubac could elevate the team’s offensive efficiency.
For now, Indiana appears to be in a survival mode, seeking any opportunity to add wins while rebuilding toward a more competitive roster. Fans are urged to stay patient, support the team through the challenges, and hope that the next draft and free‑agency moves will bring the talent needed to contend in the Eastern Conference.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
