Pacers Notes: McConnell, Oubre, Haliburton, Sheppard, 15th Spot

The Indiana Pacers upgraded guard T.J. McConnell and forward Kelly Oubre Jr. to available for Saturday's game against Denver in Mexico City. McConnell had missed the preseason and first nine regular-season games with a hamstring strain. Meanwhile, star guard Tyrese Haliburton did not make the trip to Mexico as he continues treatments for a left hamstring strain, with head coach Rick Carlisle stating his return timetable remains uncertain.

Injuries have further impacted the roster, with Ben Sheppard likely sidelined for most or all of the season following meniscus surgery. Forbes reporter Tony East notes that Indiana could potentially explore trading Sheppard before the deadline or use their open 15th roster spot on a free agent, depending on future hardship exception eligibility and financial cap flexibility.