The Indiana Pacers are entering the 2025-26 NBA season facing significant challenges as star guard Tyrese Haliburton is out for the entire season due to an Achilles injury sustained last June. Last season, the team reached the NBA Finals, but the loss of Haliburton, a three-time All-Star and key playmaker, along with the departure of Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks, has altered their outlook. Coach Rick Carlisle emphasized the need for the team to adapt quickly, focusing more on defense and collective effort rather than relying solely on individual star power. Carlisle highlighted the importance of players like Pascal Siakam, Bennedict Mathurin, and Andrew Nembhard to step up in Haliburton's absence. Siakam, with his experience and scoring ability, is expected to lead offensively, while Mathurin and Nembhard will likely see increased roles, with Nembhard taking over as the primary floor general. T.J. McConnell, despite being injured initially, remains a valuable bench presence. The team remains optimistic about competing in a tough Eastern Conference, despite lowered expectations. Carlisle stated that both conferences are competitive and that the Pacers are capable of exceeding expectations if their key players elevate their play. The season opener against the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder underscores the challenging road ahead. Overall, the Pacers are betting on their depth and collective effort to stay competitive, with the understanding that their identity as a team will be tested but remains intact despite the setbacks.