Celtics and Pacers: No Stars, Same NBA 2025-26 Goal

New Flags and Expectations in the NBA: Pacers and Celtics Redefine Their Course

In the Indiana Pacers’ training center, right in front of the Gainbridge Fieldhouse, three new flags have been raised. In addition to the retired numbers of Reggie Miller (31) and Mel Daniels (34), and the banners honoring Herb Simon and Jim Morris, the flag of the 2024-25 Eastern Conference championship now proudly flies, an achievement that was discreetly celebrated as the team prepares for the new season. Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith mentioned that the flag simply appeared one day, without a big celebration from the team. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle plans to commemorate the achievement in the first game of the season against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 23, but without dwelling too much on the past.

“It was a great run and incredible things happened. But you have to turn the page,” Carlisle said.

Rick Carlisle, Pacers coach

This is the atmosphere at the Pacers’ training camp, a team that is still recovering from its impressive playoff run, but also dealing with the disappointment of the game seven loss and Tyrese Haliburton’s injury in the first quarter of that game. Haliburton’s injury is the most recent in a series of setbacks that have affected the Eastern Conference for the 2025-26 season. The last two Eastern Conference champions, the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers, are facing the season without their main stars. Jayson Tatum of the Celtics suffered an Achilles tendon injury, and Haliburton will be out for the entire season. This situation presents a challenge for both teams, with lower-than-usual expectations. However, the Celtics and the Pacers do not plan to rebuild. Their goal is to win as many games as possible and develop their young players.

“We have to focus on what we have and not on what we don’t have,” Carlisle said.

Rick Carlisle, Pacers coach

The Celtics, under the direction of Joe Mazzulla, are also facing a change in expectations. Mazzulla, known for his intensity and focus on three-point shots, will seek to maximize the talent available in the squad. Derrick White could take on a more important role in the offense. Both Mazzulla and White see the Pacers as a model for how a team with less talent, but with a tough game, can succeed. The Pacers’ aggressive style of play inspired many during the past season. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expects the team to raise its level of play against a league that already knows its strategy. Bennedict Mathurin will enter the starting lineup and Andrew Nembhard will take on more responsibilities in ball handling, maintaining the team’s principles.

Despite his injury, Tyrese Haliburton remains a positive influence within the Pacers organization. Despite being off the court, Haliburton plans to remain a constant presence on the team, both at home and on the road.

“He will always have great energy. He is a consistent and positive spirit about life. He loves it. He gets up early. He’s here before anyone else in the morning. He has approached this rehabilitation like a beast. It will be important for him to be a part of this every day,” Carlisle said.

Rick Carlisle, Pacers coach

Haliburton is already walking without crutches and feels well enough to drive again. He is expected to return for the start of the 2026 season. Tatum, for his part, has started light basketball activities and hopes to play again this season, although there is no defined return date. This season will be strange for both teams, as the focus will be on the recovery of their stars. However, Celtics and Pacers will use this situation as motivation to have a special year.

“It doesn’t matter what people believe or say. They haven’t believed in us in three years. We surprise them every year. I don’t see what makes this year different,” Nesmith said.

Aaron Nesmith, Pacers forward