Haliburton injury concern looms over Pacers ahead of must-win NBA Finals clash against Thunder
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The Indiana Pacers are facing a major setback ahead of their must-win NBA Finals clash against the Oklahoma City Thunder , with star guard Tyrese Haliburton nursing a potential injury.Game 6 is in Indianapolis on Thursday and, if necessary, the final game of the season will be back at OKC on Sunday.Haliburton, the engine of Indiana's offence, suffered a calf strain in the Game 5 that left the Thunder, who lead 3-2 in the best-of-seven series finals, one game away from clinching the NBA crown.The Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle has confirmed that a last-minute decision will be made on Haliburton's availability ahead of Thursday's must-win NBA Finals Game 6 against the Thunder.Carlisle said the All-Star point guard will undergo a late fitness test to determine if he can start.'He'll go through tomorrow,' Carlisle said. 'We have a prep session late in the afternoon. Some testing will be done then, and that will determine whether he plays. If he can't go, we have a plan. We won't know for sure until late tomorrow afternoon or early evening.'During Monday's Game 5, Haliburton had to exit in the first quarter to receive treatment for his calf injury, though he managed to return following a discussion with Carlisle at halftime.Regarding his participation in Pacers' crucial upcoming match, Haliburton acknowledged the need to weigh his competitive spirit against potential health risks."I think it depends on who you ask. You're asking me. I think I have to be as smart as I want to be. Have to understand the risks, ask the right questions," Haliburton said."I'm a competitor; I want to play. I'm going to do everything in my power to play. That's just what it is."In preparation for Thursday's game, Haliburton is receiving continuous medical attention."Massage, needles, hyperbaric, H waves -- everything you can do to get as comfortable as you can," Haliburton said. "Just doing everything I'm told. Trying to do everything I can."
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