Tyrese Haliburton ’s absence is already casting a long shadow over the Pacers’ 2025–26 season. The All-Star guard suffered a torn Achilles in Game 7 against OKC, and suddenly, Indiana’s plans for contention are in instability. With Haliburton sidelined for the foreseeable future, questions about minutes and trade strategy are no longer theoretical, but urgent. And while the spotlight shines on Indianapolis, a secondary storyline is quietly forming across the league. Houston’s Fred VanVleet is also facing a long-term injury, and the ripple effects could intersect with the Pacers in unexpected ways.

League insiders suggest Houston’s VanVleet situation could indirectly pressure Indiana. With the Rockets exploring short-term replacements for their injured guard, names like TJ McConnell

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