Pacers’ Haliburton Makes Progress; Simmons, Westbrook Rumors Swirl

Indiana Pacers’ promising guard Tyrese Haliburton is slowly making strides in his rehabilitation from a serious injury. Recently, Haliburton shared a video of himself practicing free throws as he continues his recovery from a torn right Achilles tendon. This injury, which he sustained during a pivotal Game 7 in the 2025 NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, has unfortunately sidelined him for the entirety of the upcoming season.

Haliburton’s absence will be a significant setback for the Pacers, who relied heavily on his exceptional playmaking ability to reach the Finals, overcoming formidable opponents like the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and the New York Knicks. Last season, Haliburton averaged a notable 18.6 points and 9.2 assists per game, earning him a spot on the All-NBA Third Team. However, with Myles Turner now playing for the Bucks, the Pacers find themselves in a challenging position as they prepare for a season without their star guard.

In addition to Haliburton’s situation, the basketball world is buzzing with potential moves involving other notable players. According to hoopswire.com, Ben Simmons is still on the lookout for a new team, with the New York Knicks emerging as a likely destination. Simmons, who played for both the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers last season, averaged just 5.0 points and 5.6 assists in limited action. As he approaches his 28th birthday, it appears he may need to settle for a minimum contract to continue his career.

Sources suggest that while the Sacramento Kings could also be in play for Simmons, the Knicks are viewed as a more suitable fit for the guard. His versatility could bolster New York’s depth and provide a defensive edge, making him a valuable addition to their roster.

Another player whose future is being closely monitored is Russell Westbrook. As reported by hoopswire.com, Westbrook may be eyeing a move to Sacramento on a two-year minimum contract with a player option. The perennial All-Star’s experience and leadership could serve as a crucial asset for the Kings, who are in need of a reliable backup point guard. Westbrook’s transition to a lesser role in recent years has been a topic of discussion among fans and analysts alike, but his competitive spirit remains intact.

As the NBA offseason progresses, the landscape continues to shift, with teams reassessing their rosters and looking for the right pieces to make a push for the playoffs. With Haliburton out for the season, the Pacers will have to adapt quickly if they hope to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the potential additions of Simmons and Westbrook to their respective teams could significantly impact their chances of success in the upcoming season.