Will Tyrese Haliburton play tonight against the OKC Thunder in NBA Finals Game 1? Latest update on the Indiana Pacers star's injury report (June 5, 2025)

The Indiana Pacers received the best possible news ahead of NBA Finals Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Star guard Tyrese Haliburton does not appear on the team's injury report and will be fully available for the series opener at Paycom Center. This confirmation comes after Haliburton battled through minor injuries during the Indiana Pacers' surprising playoff run. The All-Star playmaker remains the central figure in Indiana's championship hopes as they seek their first title since 2000.

Indiana Pacers injury report for NBA Finals Game 1 vs OKC Thunder (June 5, 2025)

While Tyrese Haliburton is ready to go, the Pacers will be short-handed in other areas: - Jarace Walker (out): The forward remains sidelined with a right ankle sprain, leaving a hole in Indiana's bench rotation - Isaiah Jackson (out): The center continues recovering from a right Achilles tear suffered earlier this season - Tony Bradley (questionable): The backup big man faces a game-time decision due to a left hip flexor strain These absences put extra pressure on Indiana's remaining big men to contain Thunder star Chet Holmgren while maintaining the team's fast-paced offensive style.

Tyrese Haliburton's playoff performance breakdown

The Indiana Pacers guard enters the finals with these postseason averages:

Tyrese Haliburton's playoff run has featured both brilliance and inconsistency: - Delivered a historic triple-double in the Eastern Conference Finals - Had several quiet scoring nights against physical defenses - Maintained elite playmaking throughout all series

Thunder defense presents toughest test yet

Oklahoma City brings the league's best defense into the finals, creating a fascinating matchup: - Lu Dort and Alex Caruso will likely take turns guarding Tyrese Haliburton - Thunder led the NBA in defensive rating during regular season - Oklahoma City allows the fewest transition points in the league Haliburton's ability to navigate this defense while dealing with increased physical play will significantly impact Indiana's chances.

What to expect in Indiana Pacers vs OKC Thunder NBA Finals Game 1

With Tyrese Haliburton healthy, the Indiana Pacers can run their full offensive system, but challenges remain: - Bench production must compensate for Walker's absence - Frontcourt players need to avoid foul trouble against Holmgren - Haliburton must balance scoring and playmaking against elite defendersAlso read: OKC Thunder vs Indiana Pacers NBA Finals Game 1 betting predictions: Best bets, pick, spread, and odds for 2025 Championship SeriesThe Thunder's home-court advantage and defensive identity make them slight favorites, but a fully available Haliburton gives Indiana a fighting chance to steal the opener. The stage is set for an intriguing battle between Indiana's high-powered offense and Oklahoma City's smothering defense.