Here’s your extended English preview (over 2,500 characters) for the NBA Daily Injury Report – June 12, 2025, focusing on Tyrese Haliburton’s status ahead of Game 3:


Can Haliburton Shake Off That Limp and Suit Up for Game 3?

🗓️ Update — June 12, 2025 | 6:03 AM KST
📍 Indianapolis, Gainbridge Fieldhouse
📝 Written by Seonghan Hong, JumpBall

Series Snapshot

The 2025 NBA Finals are deadlocked at 1-1. Game 1 saw the Indiana Pacers steal a one-point win thanks to Tyrese Haliburton’s buzzer-beater, triumphing 111–110. But Game 2 swung back Oklahoma City’s way, as Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander erupted for 34 points and OKC’s bench poured in 48, sealing a dominant 123–107 victory from the road.

Now, we pivot to Game 3 — a crucial turning point — tipping at 9:30 AM KST on June 12 in Indianapolis.

Big Question: Will Haliburton Play Despite Ankle Concerns?

Haliburton exited Game 2 with a visible limp, sparking worries about a right ankle sprain. However, the latest reports paint a reassuring picture:

  • ESPN: Haliburton said, “I feel fine… I’ll be ready to go for Game 3.” Coach Rick Carlisle added that while there’s “some discomfort,” the guard is improving daily, taking every rep in practice (espn.com, si.com, newson6.com).

  • AP: Carlisle emphasized that Haliburton’s condition is trending upward and that nobody on the team is being held back by minor injuries .

  • Rotoballer: Highlighted Haliburton’s own comment about a “lower leg thing” that he’s moved past (rotoballer.com).

  • Reddit chatter: Insiders echo the sentiment — “All the feel is he’s fine… going to be good to go.” (reddit.com).

📋 Final Injury Report (as of 6:00 AM KST, Game 3 tip-off scheduled for 9:30 AM KST):

Oklahoma City Thunder (1-1)

  • Nikola Topić – Left knee surgery (Out for season) (si.com)

Indiana Pacers (1-1)

  • Isaiah Jackson – Right Achilles tendon injury (Out for season) (theplayoffs.news)

  • Jarace Walker – Right ankle sprain (Out) (theplayoffs.news)

  • Tyrese Haliburton – Right ankle sprain (Probable) despite post‑Game 2 limp (apnews.com)

The Stakes Are Towering

This marks Indianapolis’s first NBA Finals game on home court since 2000, injecting intensity and energy into the atmosphere. Haliburton’s presence is key: he not only controls the offense but also elevates efficiency and tempo. His stats — averaging 15.5 PTS, 6.5 REB, 6.0 AST on 50% shooting in the series — underscore his impact (espn.com).

On the flip side, the Thunder are expected to be strong health-wise. Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander is fully cleared and primed for another dominant night (foxsports1360.iheart.com). The bench and supporting cast, including Cason Wallace, are part of a deep, well-rounded roster (aseaofblue.com).

Key Focus Areas for Game 3

1. Haliburton’s Availability & Performance

  • His footwork, first step, and ability to handle defensive pressure will be pivotal. Practice reps and a limp post-game suggest he's battling but cleared to play.

2. Thunder Defense Tactics

  • OKC will press Haliburton hard, much like in Game 2 where he struggled early (5 turnovers) under pressure (reuters.com).

3. Bench Dynamics

  • OKC’s bench outscored IND’s 48–34 in Game 2. Pacers need Toppin, McConnell, Nembhard, and Nesmith to generate composure, rhythm, and points (foxsports1360.iheart.com).

4. Physical Toll & Depth Factor

  • Oklahoma’s offseason acquisition of Alex Caruso and Hartenstein paid off; their rotation depth allows them to weather Game 3’s high pace (en.wikipedia.org).

  • Indiana carries injuries — Haliburton’s lower leg, plus Jackson and Walker out — while OKC is relatively healthy (bolavip.com).

Outlook: What to Watch Tonight

  • The home crowd’s energy could lift Indiana and compress the Thunder’s comfort on the road.

  • If Haliburton logs 35–40 minutes and delivers near his Game 1 standards, the Pacers are in striking range.

  • If OKC maintains pressure on turnovers, leverages their bench edge, and Shai sustains MVP-caliber offense, Indiana could sink under the dual burden of energy expenditure and injuries.

Final Word

Tyrese Haliburton is expected to play Game 3 despite the ankle sprain, as confirmed through multiple sources. His condition will be closely watched — if his movement is fluid and he passes the NBA’s pregame check in warmups, his presence energizes Indiana. If he's noticeably limited, the Thunder’s depth and defensive dominance could tilt the balance.

With a title opportunity at stake, expect Game 3 to be a high-octane, physically grueling affair. Stay tuned for updates as tip-off nears — including Haliburton’s final pre-game availability. This is the night stakes escalate: will it be the adrenaline of home court, or the refinement of OKC strategy that prevails?

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