UPDATE: The Indiana Pacers are facing a severe injury crisis just days into the NBA season. Forward Obi Toppin is set to be sidelined for at least a month due to a right hamstring strain, while guard Bennedict Mathurin is classified as “week-to-week” with a right big toe sprain, according to coach Rick Carlisle on October 31, 2023. This brings the total number of players out to eight for their upcoming game against the Dallas Mavericks.
The injury woes have compounded quickly for the Pacers. They were already without point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is out for the season with a torn Achilles, and backup T.J. McConnell, who is expected to miss at least the first month due to a left hamstring strain. Just one week into the season, the roster is becoming increasingly depleted.
The impact of these injuries is immediate and significant. Mathurin had been performing exceptionally well, averaging 31 points and 7 rebounds on 55% shooting. Meanwhile, Toppin was contributing 14 points and 7 rebounds off the bench. Both players left the game during a tough loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday.
Adding to the team’s woes, starting guard Andrew Nembhard also left the season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder with a strained left shoulder. While he participated in part of Tuesday’s practice, Carlisle did not provide an update on when fans can expect his return.
The Pacers have also listed reserves Taelon Peter (groin), Johnny Furphy (foot), and Kam Jones (lower back) as out for Wednesday’s clash with the Mavericks. In a bid to address the growing injury list, the Pacers signed three-time dunk contest champion Mac McClung on Monday and waived center James Wiseman.
The Pacers’ struggles have put them in a precarious position, marking their third 0-3 start in the last eleven seasons. Historically, they have made the playoffs during the previous two instances (2015-2016 and 2019-2020), raising concerns about their current trajectory.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as the Pacers navigate this challenging start to the season. With injuries mounting, the urgency for a turnaround is palpable, and the team must rally to find a way to compete in the coming weeks. Stay tuned as we monitor the latest developments from Indiana.
