The Indiana Pacers were in a spot like this 11 years ago, after Paul George's nasty leg injury. The difference is that their franchise player is definitely out for the entire season this time. This gives the team clarity, at least: They'll be as competitive as they can be without Tyrese Haliburton , and they'll learn more about their young players. Can Bennedict Mathurin do what Rick Carlisle wants him to do as a full-time starter? Can Andrew Nembhard handle increased usage while maintaining his defensive intensity? Will 2025-26 be Jarace Walker's breakout year? Will it be Johnny Furphy's ?

If there is a silver lining to Haliburton's absence, it is that Indiana is the rare team coming off a surprisingly deep run that will not be expected to duplicate it. The Pacers of re

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