In Game 7 of the NBA Finals, the Indiana Pacers faced a significant setback when guard Tyrese Haliburton left the game in the first quarter due to a right leg injury. The team later announced he would not return due to what they termed a “lower right leg injury,” which Haliburton’s father indicated was an Achilles issue. The Pacers ultimately lost the game 103-91, struggling offensively with their lowest scoring output of the playoffs in Haliburton’s absence.
Haliburton had started strong, scoring nine points in seven minutes while shooting 75% from three-point range. His injury occurred shortly after he received a pass at the top of the key; he collapsed and slammed the court in pain before needing assistance off the floor without putting weight on his right leg.
Before Game 7, Haliburton had been crucial to Indiana’s playoff run, averaging 17.7 points, 9 assists, and 5.6 rebounds across 22 playoff games. He played a key role in the Pacers’ postseason success, including hitting a game-winning shot in the Finals’ first game. Remarkably, he had been managing a right calf strain during the series, exacerbated in Game 5, which made his performance in the finals even more commendable.
In the lead-up to Game 7, Haliburton expressed a strong desire to compete, emphasizing the importance of his bond with teammates and his commitment to winning. Despite his injury concerns, he was willing to play through pain, always prioritizing the team’s success over his health. His absence in the decisive game proved critical to Indiana’s performance and playoff ambitions.
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