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Pacers Face Injury Crisis, Sign Cam Payne for Depth

10/13/2025

27 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Pacers Face Injuries

The Indiana Pacers face an injury crisis as guard Tyrese Haliburton is out for the 2025-26 season.
In a preseason game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Indiana Pacers guards Johnny Furphy and Quenton Jackson sustained injuries, worsening depth.
T.J. McConnell will miss at least the first month due to hamstring strain.
The Indiana Pacers signed Cam Payne to bolster their guard rotation.
Delon Wright was waived to clear roster space.

Summary

Thunder Grapple with Injuries

The Oklahoma City Thunder face injuries ahead of the 2025-26 season after guard Isaiah Joe and guard Ajay Mitchell sustained lower-body injuries in a preseason loss to the Indiana Pacers.
The Thunder's injury list now includes Kenrich Williams and Nikola Topic.
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams is recovering from wrist surgery.
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault says injuries will test the team's depth.

History

Historical Context

The 1996-97 NBA season saw a significant injury crisis, notably affecting stars like Grant Hill and Anfernee Hardaway, which led to a 20% drop in attendance for the Detroit Pistons. This trend of injuries continues to challenge teams, as seen with the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder facing similar issues before the 2025-26 season, highlighting the ongoing need for roster depth and strategic adaptations.

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Pacers Face Injuries

The Indiana Pacers face an injury crisis as guard Tyrese Haliburton is out for the 2025-26 season.
In a preseason game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Indiana Pacers guards Johnny Furphy and Quenton Jackson sustained injuries, worsening depth.
T.J. McConnell will miss at least the first month due to hamstring strain.
The Indiana Pacers signed Cam Payne to bolster their guard rotation.
Delon Wright was waived to clear roster space.

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