UPDATE: Both the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers are bracing for a challenging season as they embark on the 2025-26 NBA season without their star players. Just days before their regular season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 23, 2025, both teams face significant losses that are reshaping their strategies and expectations.
At the Pacers’ training facility, three new championship banners adorn the walls, a silent testament to last year’s unexpected playoff run. However, the optimism surrounding the 2024-25 Eastern Conference Championship banner contrasts sharply with the reality of losing Tyrese Haliburton for the entire season due to a torn Achilles suffered in the playoffs. Coach Rick Carlisle emphasized the need to move forward, stating, “You got to turn the page.”
For the Celtics, the situation mirrors Indiana’s struggles. Star player Jayson Tatum also tore his Achilles, sidelining him for much of the season. Despite these setbacks, both teams remain determined to compete at a high level. Derrick White, a key guard for the Celtics, expressed a newfound excitement in navigating this uncharted territory, saying, “We’re not the hunted anymore.”
The stakes are high as the Celtics and Pacers adapt to their new realities. The Celtics lost significant roster pieces, including Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, while the Pacers lost center Myles Turner to free agency. This opens the door for other players to step into pivotal roles, and both teams are looking to develop their younger talent.
Despite the challenges, the Eastern Conference remains wide open. The Celtics currently sit with the seventh best odds to win the East, while the Pacers are at ninth, according to ESPN BET. Neither team plans to tank; instead, they aim to maximize their wins and maintain competitive spirits throughout the season.
Carlisle spoke to the importance of focusing on development, stating, “We want to maximize what we can with wins and losses.” The Pacers intend to maintain their fast-paced, high-pressure style that inspired many last season, despite the increased scrutiny they will face from opponents who are now better prepared.
In Boston, head coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledges the need to adapt his coaching approach, given the roster’s current dynamics. “I may have to coach completely differently than the year before,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of maximizing the talent available.
Both Haliburton and Tatum are progressing in their recoveries, with Haliburton actively participating in team activities despite being sidelined from games. He remains a vibrant presence at practices, demonstrating his leadership even off the court. Tatum, on the other hand, has resumed light basketball activities but insists on taking the necessary time to ensure a full recovery.
As the NBA season approaches, the implications of these injuries extend beyond the court. The Celtics and Pacers are committed to proving doubters wrong, with players like Nesmith reminding fans and analysts, “They haven’t believed in us in three years. We surprise them every single year.”
With both teams confronting a season of uncertainty, their resilience and determination could pave the way for unexpected triumphs. Fans are eager to see how this narrative unfolds in the coming weeks as the regular season kicks off.
