The Indiana Pacers are preparing to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in their season opener on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. This highly anticipated game will take place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Pacers’ roster has been affected by several injuries, but their situation is not as severe as that of the Thunder.
Injury Updates for the Pacers
The Pacers are currently without key players, including All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is sidelined for the season due to an Achilles tendon tear. Additionally, veteran point guard T.J. McConnell is expected to be out until at least November 9.
- Tyrese Haliburton: Out for the season (Achilles tendon tear)
- T.J. McConnell: Out until at least November 9
- Kam Jones: Out with lower back stress reaction (until around November 9)
- Quenton Jackson: Out with right hamstring strain
On a positive note, forwards Jarace Walker and Johnny Furphy have recovered from their respective injuries. Walker had been dealing with back soreness, while Furphy had a left ankle sprain. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expressed optimism about their availability for the game.
Options at Point Guard
With Haliburton and McConnell unavailable, Andrew Nembhard will take on the role of starting point guard. The backup position remains uncertain, but both Ben Sheppard and rookie Taelon Peter have been training in this capacity.
Thunder’s Injury Report
The Oklahoma City Thunder are also coping with injury challenges, missing multiple key players. While reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be on the court, several notable absences are noteworthy.
- Jalen Williams: Out (right wrist surgery)
- Kenrich Williams: Out (left knee injury)
- Nikola Topic: Out (surgical recovery)
- Thomas Sorber: Out for the season (ACL injury)
- Alex Caruso: Out (concussion)
- Isaiah Joe: Out (left knee contusion)
Guards Luguentz Dort and Cason Wallace, both of whom played significant roles in a recent double-overtime victory over the Rockets, are listed as questionable due to injuries.
Looking Ahead
As the Pacers prepare for the matchup, they are focusing on strategies to compensate for their injured stars. Coach Carlisle has faith in the team’s adaptability and resilience, despite relying on less conventional options.
The upcoming game not only highlights the challenges both teams face but also sets the stage for new opportunities for the Pacers and Thunder. Fans are eagerly awaiting this clash to see how both squads will respond to their injuries.
