The Indiana Pacers have never won an NBA title. They’ve won three ABA titles (1970, 1972, 1973), but the team has no Larry O’Brien Trophies and only one Finals appearance (2000). They are a franchise starved for significance, dying to etch its name in history, and in 2025, they finally have a shot.
After taking down the New York Knicks in six games in the Eastern Conference finals, the Pacers are just four wins away from achieving their first NBA championship. With young stars such as Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers certainly have the talent to put up a fight, but they may be going into the Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder shorthanded.
In their conference-clinching Game 6 victory, second-year forward Jarace Walker suffered what looked like a serious ankle injury in the fourth quarter. Walker was unable to leave the court on his own and needed to be helped off by trainers.
Walker has played a sizable role in the Pacers’ trek through the East, contributing decent minutes in Games 5 and 6 of the Eastern Conference finals. Here’s the latest news on Walker’s availability for the start of the NBA Finals.
Jarace Walker injury update
Carlisle noted that Walker’s ankle was still swollen. He claimed the forward is still using crutches today as part of his recovery. Carlisle ended his statement by emphasizing that Walker’s return date will rely heavily on his progress in rehab.
How does Jarace Walker’s injury impact Pacers?
Although Walker has not been a central figure in the Pacers’ gameplan, he has provided clutch minutes and solid defense off the bench. His absence certainly throws the Pacers’ rotation for a loop just days before the Pacers’ most important games in a quarter century.
Walker was one of the best defensive options the Pacers had on their bench. Given Oklahoma City’s offensive versatility, the Pacers could be in serious trouble if another bench player does not step up and fill Walker’s shoes.
NBA Finals schedule
*-if necessary. All times Eastern.
Game 1, June 5: Pacers at Thunder | ABC, 8:30 p.m.
Game 2, June 8: Pacers at Thunder | ABC, 8 p.m.
Game 3, June 11: Thunder at Pacers | ABC, 8:30 p.m.
Game 4, June 13: Thunder at Pacers | ABC, 8:30 p.m.
Game 5, June 16: Pacers at Thunder | ABC, 8:30 p.m.*
Game 6, June 19: Thunder at Pacers | ABC, 8:30 p.m.*
Game 7, June 22: Pacers at Thunder | ABC, 8 p.m.*