Tyrese Haliburton has long been a solid player in the league, but it is becoming increasingly more clear that he is at his best in close-out games in the playoffs, and that should scare the rest of the NBA.
Now in his second playoff run of his career, the Indiana Pacers guard is continuing to excel when the lights are at their brightest. In four total close-out games in his career so far, Haliburton is averaging 25 points, 8.3 assists, and 5.3 rebounds while shooting 52.9% from the field. The Pacers are 4-0 in those games.
Haliburton has had quite a few fantastic close-out games in his career already, but none of them were as impressive as his most recent one against the Cleveland Cavaliers. In a series-clinching Game 5 victory against the No. 1 seed in the East, Haliburton scored a team-high 31 points while shooting 10-for-15 from the field and 6-for-10 from beyond the arc. He also recorded eight assists, six rebounds, a steal, and a block. He was efficient and contributed at every level of the game, which allowed them to complete the upset, and it is exactly why he is essential to the team's NBA Championship aspirations.
Tyrese Haliburton is not scared of a challenge
The Pacers have developed a reputation as a team who does not back down from any challenges and will rise to the occasion. This was evident during their conference finals run last year, and they have only doubled down on that notion this season. A lot of that has to do with their playstyle and coaching, but it ultimately comes down to the players on the court, especially Haliburton.
Though the Pacers are objectively not the most stacked roster in the league (or even in the conference), it should terrify all the opposing teams to know that the Wisconsin native can turn it up in a second and show out when needed. Haliburton and the Pacers have done a great job so far of taking care of business when they need to, which bodes well for their long-term playoff success.
Haliburton is notably much more efficient and aggressive in close-out games. In theory, it would be best for him and the team if he could incorporate a lot of that into his regular performances, but it is still encouraging nonetheless. Haliburton can be trusted when the team needs him most, and that is exactly what you want out of your top player.