Tyrese Haliburton Surprised by Season Opener Against Pelicans

Tyrese Haliburton is set to make a notable return to the court this season after recovering from an Achilles injury sustained during the 2025 NBA Finals. The star guard, who played a pivotal role in leading the Pacers to a dramatic Game 7, is eager to return to action after a lengthy recovery period of over a year.

However, Haliburton recently voiced his surprise regarding the Pacers' season opener, which will take place in New Orleans against the Pelicans. On the "Numbers On The Board" podcast, he expressed his disappointment that such a significant moment in his career would not be highlighted with a more prominent matchup, especially considering his injury history.

Haliburton questioned why the game was scheduled against a team expected to struggle this season, with the Pelicans projected to win only 27.5 games according to DraftKings. He remarked on the lack of historical rivalry or significance in facing the Pelicans, further emphasizing his feelings about the matchup.

Despite his concerns, Haliburton remains optimistic about his performance. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 18.6 points and 9.2 assists, showcasing his skills before the injury. As he prepares for his return, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he bounces back and leads the Pacers this season.