When it’s his day, he looks like one of the top PGs in the NBA, but when it’s not, it feels like he’s not even trying. The Indiana Pacers (21-18) are playing some of their best ball this season. And they’re facing off against the Cleveland Cavaliers right now, the NBA’s top team. It’s a showdown between the two longest winning streaks currently in the Eastern Conference. But the Pacers just lost Tyrese Haliburton!

Haliburton won’t be returning for the second half of Indiana’s game against the Cavaliers on Sunday because of tightness in his left hamstring. This is the same hamstring that caused him to miss 10 games last January… He also injured it again during the Eastern Conference Finals, which heartbreakingly cut his season short. Whether it’s a re-injury or a new issue isn’t clear yet.

Tyrese Haliburton had a tough night, without even considering the injury, putting up just two points, one rebound, five assists, and a steal in 19 minutes. His shooting was off too, only making 1 of 5 shots and going 0 for 2 from three.

Before this game, though, he had been solid all season, averaging 18.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, 8.9 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. His shooting splits were impressive too, hitting 44.7% from the field and 36.3% from deep. We understand not every game can be a highlight reel, but with his stats, it’s clear he’s been a key piece for the Indiana Pacers.

Nearly a year has passed since he suffered the injury against the Boston Celtics. What’s even more impressive? He hasn’t missed a single game this season. Just when Andrew Nembhard seemed to get into a rhythm with 2x All-Star, an injury scare disrupted plans.

The Pacers aren’t giving up Nembhard, who fits like a glove with Tyrese Haliburton!

Nembhard has quickly become a foundational part of the Pacers’ future, with them seeing him as an essential piece in their backcourt next to Tyrese Haliburton. His versatility to play both on and off the ball makes him the perfect complement to Haliburton’s playstyle, and the Indiana unit is excited about his long-term potential.

With the Pacers currently in the midst of an 11-3 surge, Andrew Nembhard’s value is becoming more obvious. He’s been one of the most prized players on this roster, and the team is showing no signs of moving him as the trade deadline approaches!

As Stein mentioned, Andrew Nembhard is pretty much off-limits for any team trying to make a deal. Hands down.

This third-year guard has stepped up in a big way this season, posting career-highs of 10.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. His growth has been impressive, and when Tyrese Haliburton was injured last season, Nembhard filled in seamlessly, proving he’s not just a future contributor, but someone who can help in the present as well.

Currently on a bargain contract worth just over $2 million, Nembhard’s strong display has only fueled trade rumors. But with a three-year, $58.6 million extension kicking in next season, the Pacers are clearly invested in his future.

So, what about the teams looking to steal Nembhard away from Indiana? They might want to look elsewhere. The Pacers are committed to keeping him as a long-term partner for Haliburton in the backcourt.