Pacers' Haliburton dealing with 'lower leg thing,' says he's ready for Game 3

Indiana Pacers fans can breathe a sigh of relief.

After Tyrese Haliburton was seen limping as he left his post-game presser following Sunday's Game 2 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the star guard put to rest any concerns over his status heading into Game 3 on Wednesday.

"I'm fine, it's just a lower leg thing," Haliburton told reporters on Tuesday. "I'll leave it at that, I don't think there's anything more to elaborate, I feel fine and I'll be ready to go for Game 3."

Although his late-game heroics in Game 1 helped Indiana steal the series opener in Oklahoma City, Haliburton hasn't been able to fully break through the Thunder's overwhelming defence.

The 25-year-old is averaging 15.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 1.0 steals and 4.0 turnovers through the first two games of the NBA Finals. He's also yet to attempt a single free throw in the series, struggling to generate paint touches or get to the rim consistently against OKC.

For contrast, Haliburton averaged 18.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 9.8 assists, 1.4 steals and just 1.9 turnovers through the first three rounds of the playoffs.

Meanwhile, the two-time all-star did participate in the Pacers' off-day practice on Tuesday, without any restrictions.

Indiana head coach Rick Carlisle, when speaking to reporters, acknowledged Haliburton's been dealing with something but wasn't overly concerned.

"At this time of year, I don't know if anybody's feeling perfect," the Pacers bench boss said. "He practiced and went through everything. I know he has some discomfort, he feels it, but each day is getting better.

"I don't think you're going to hear him make a big deal out of it."

The Pacers and Thunder look to break their 1-1 series tie on Wednesday, catch Game 3 on Sportsnet or Sportsnet+ at 8:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. PT.