NEW YORK — Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton is promising a much better performance in Game 2 after a surprisingly low-impact showing in the team’s opening loss to the New York Knicks in the second round of the playoffs.
Haliburton took just six shots, with only one attempt inside the three-point line, scoring a mere six points as the Pacers squandered a nine-point lead in the fourth quarter to lose 121-117 in Monday’s Game 1. This marked his second-fewest shot attempts in a game all season, with the lowest coming in January when he left a game early due to injury.
The Knicks’ defense targeted him heavily, trying to limit his touches, but there were times when Haliburton seemed hesitant even when opportunities to shoot were there. He still managed eight assists, though this was three fewer than his season average of 11 per game, along with four steals.
“I leaned towards playmaking when I shouldn’t have,” Haliburton said Tuesday after practice. “I need to stick to my game, but I’ll be better tomorrow.” During his seven-minute press conference, Haliburton promised to “be better” a total of 13 times, making it clear that he understood what he needed to change for Game 2. However, he is dealing with back spasms, and although he’s expected to play, the injury might be impacting him more than he’s letting on. His aggression has noticeably decreased since his back flared up, an issue that has troubled him occasionally since high school.
“Everyone’s dealing with something this time of year, and he’s doing everything he can to stay in top shape,” said Pacers coach Rick Carlisle. “I believe he’ll play, but it’s definitely a concern.”
In the last five games, two-thirds of Haliburton’s shots have been from beyond the arc, and he’s only taken seven free throws in seven playoff games. Carlisle admitted he needed to do more to help Haliburton find his rhythm, but noted that the Pacers’ offense was still potent enough to win Game 1 despite their star player’s struggles.
Dealing with a subpar performance in a critical loss and the subsequent scrutiny is part of the learning curve for Haliburton, who is in the playoffs for the first time in a season that’s already been a breakthrough for him.
“This is what I’ve always wanted. I’ve always dreamed of playing in the playoffs,” he said. “The world isn’t ending because we lost one game. We have a chance to tie the series tomorrow and go home with a 1-1 split, so there’s no need to hit the panic button.”
