The Boston Celtics are dominating the Eastern Conference playoffs, leaving the Indiana Pacers struggling to keep up. With star point guard Tyrese Haliburton listed as questionable due to a left hamstring injury sustained in Game 2, the Pacers are facing a critical Game 3 at home. Haliburton had been playing exceptionally well in the series, contributing 10 points and eight assists in just 28 minutes before being forced to leave the game due to his injury.
Haliburton’s absence would be a significant blow to the Pacers as they look to mount a comeback against a tough Celtics team. In fact, his previous hamstring strain had already forced him out of 10 games earlier in the season. Despite this setback, coach Rick Carlisle remains optimistic about Haliburton’s chances of returning for Game 3. “Tyrese is working hard and we hope he can recover in time for Game 3,” he said.
The exact play where Haliburton sustained his injury is unclear, but it appears that he may have overexerted himself while trying to make a pass during the third quarter of Game 2. “Tyrese was showing signs of discomfort earlier in the game and attempted to play through it,” said Carlisle. “But when he couldn’t continue, we made the decision to shut him down for the rest of the game.”
If Haliburton is unable to play in Game 3, it will leave a big hole in the Pacers’ lineup. He has been one of their top performers throughout the series, leading them with an average of eight assists per game so far. However, even without him on their side, the Pacers are determined to give it their all and turn things around against their tough opponents.
Overall, if Haliburton is able to recover from his injury and return for Game 3, he will be a crucial piece for Indiana as they try to keep up with Boston’s momentum and secure their spot in the NBA Finals.
