NBA Fans Concerned as Tyrese Haliburton’s Calf Injury Puts Pacers’ Playoff Hopes at Risk in Game 5 Loss

The Oklahoma City Thunder are one step away from winning the NBA championship. They beat the Indiana Pacers 120-109 in Game 5 of the Finals, taking a 3-2 lead in the series. Just a few days earlier, the Thunder avoided a major setback by rallying in Game 4, turning a potential 3-1 series hole into a chance to clinch the title.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league MVP, led the way with 31 points, 10 assists, four blocks, and two steals. His teammate, Jalen Williams, also shined, scoring 40 points and grabbing six rebounds. In contrast, Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton struggled, managing only four points on 0-for-6 shooting because of a calf injury. Pascal Siakam and T.J. McConnell played well, but their efforts fell short.

Social media buzzed about Haliburton’s performance and health, reflecting concerns from fans. Just days before, the Pacers had a chance to take control of the series but fell apart late in Game 4. With that loss, the momentum shifted firmly to Oklahoma City.

The Thunder got off to a strong start, taking a double-digit lead in the first quarter as Indiana struggled with turnovers, racking up seven in the first twelve minutes. Haliburton’s slow start, combined with an injury that forced him to briefly leave the game, made it harder for the Pacers.

By halftime, the Thunder had built a 14-point lead. Besides Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams, bench players like Aaron Wiggins and Cason Wallace helped keep the pressure on Indiana with hot shooting.

However, the Pacers are known for their resilience. They came roaring back in the third quarter, with McConnell leading the charge. His fearless drives to the basket created scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. Siakam also stepped up with pivotal three-pointers.

Despite the effort, a comeback was not meant to be. Key shots from Lu Dort and continued scoring from Williams and Gilgeous-Alexander solidified the Thunder’s advantage. Now, the Thunder have a chance to finish the series on the road in Game 6.

Recent stats show that teams coming off a strong Game 5 victory in the Finals go on to win the championship more often than not. This trend adds pressure and excitement heading into the next game. Fans are eager to see if the Thunder can secure the championship and if the Pacers can recover and force a Game 7.

For more stats on playoff performance trends, you can check out studies from the NBA Research department.

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