Why pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton is sitting out preseason matchup vs. Hawks

Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton was ruled out of Saturday's preseason game against the Atlanta Hawks due to an ankle injury. Head coach Rick Carlisle characterized the issue as a mild tweak of Haliburton's right ankle, according to reporting from Marc Stein. The team is exercising caution with their franchise centerpiece ahead of the regular season opener on October 21 against the New Orleans Pelicans.

Haliburton is returning from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. He made his initial preseason return on Wednesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves, tallying seven points, six assists, two steals, and one block. The guard's next opportunity to play is scheduled for Tuesday at Paycom Center.