Haliburton's Return Headlines Pacers-Timberwolves Preseason Test

Indiana's preseason opener against Minnesota is mostly about Tyrese Haliburton's return and how the retooled roster fits together.

MIN @ IND Oct 7, 2026 at 11:00 PM UTC

Preseason rarely produces clean answers, but Indiana's matchup with Minnesota carries one big storyline: Tyrese Haliburton is back from his torn Achilles. The Pacers describe him as healthy and ready, and the team is clearly happy to have its leader on the floor again. After winning only 19 games last season and missing the playoffs, Indiana has every reason to treat his return as the starting point of its rebuild.

Still, a long layoff usually leaves some rust. Even if Haliburton looks sharp, the Pacers may not find their rhythm right away. Timing on pushes, passing angles and the pace of the first few possessions can take time to return, and Indiana's preseason offense could look uneven in spurts. Minnesota doesn't have to be spectacular to take advantage of a team still working through those details.

The Pacers' roster fit also has questions. Their up-tempo style is a selling point for newcomer Larry Nance Jr., who said the pace was part of why he wanted to join. But Nance is questionable with a hamstring issue, which could limit the bench help Indiana expected. Ivica Zubac, projected as the center of the future after arriving at the trade deadline last year, brings rebounding and rim finishing, but he must adjust to running the floor in this system.

That combination of a returning star, new pieces and a possibly thin bench points toward a choppy night for Indiana. Haliburton should provide some bright moments, and the home crowd will be eager to see him. Minnesota's steadier, more settled look should be enough to win a game where Indiana is still finding its identity. I'll take the Timberwolves 114-108.

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