Injuries Plague Pacers as Early-Season Deficit Widens
The Indiana Pacers faced a challenging start to the 2025-26 NBA season, suffering their fourth consecutive loss against the Dallas Mavericks with a final score of 107-105. Despite leading by as many as 14 points during the game, the Pacers couldn’t clinch their first victory of the season, falling into the worst start since 1988-89.
Injuries Affecting Pacers’ Performance
The Pacers entered the game with a severely depleted roster. With eight players listed as injured, including All-Star Tyrese Haliburton, the team struggled to maintain consistent performance. Haliburton’s season is over due to a torn Achilles tendon sustained in the NBA Finals.
- Key injuries include:
- Tyrese Haliburton (out for the season)
- Andrew Nembhard (shoulder strain)
- T.J. McConnell (hamstring; out until Nov. 9)
- Bennedict Mathurin (great toe sprain; week-to-week)
- Obi Toppin (injured)
This injury crisis has resulted in drastic adjustments, leading to four different starting lineups in just four games. Aaron Nesmith, the Pacers’ best shooter, had an off night, finishing 2 of 15 from the field, including a missed 3-pointer that could have sealed the victory.
Game Highlights and Key Moments
Aaron Nesmith had a last-minute opportunity to win the game, but his shot did not clear the rim. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expressed confidence in Nesmith’s abilities, stating, “He’s going to shoot great.” Despite the disappointing finish, the Pacers showcased resilience, coming back from a 12-point deficit late in the game.
The Pacers took advantage of a vulnerable Mavericks team, who were missing key players such as Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis due to injuries. They built a solid lead early, showing promise on both ends of the court. However, cold shooting and turnovers plagued them in crucial moments.
Upcoming Challenges
The Pacers will need to regroup as they return home for four games, with tough opponents ahead:
- Atlanta Hawks
- Golden State Warriors
- Milwaukee Bucks
- Brooklyn Nets
These upcoming matches will test their depth and resilience further, especially with significant challenges embedded within the schedule. If the Pacers don’t secure some early wins, the mounting pressure could become overwhelming as they await the return of their injured players.
Coach Carlisle remains optimistic but acknowledges the challenges ahead, stating, “We must not allow stagnation offensively. We have the ability to play our style regardless of the situation.”
The Pacers’ efforts in these early games are critical amid their injury challenges. They are determined to turn things around soon, as winning early is essential to avoid falling too far behind in the 2025-26 NBA season.
