Pacers Release 2025-26 NBA Schedule

The Indiana Pacers' 2025-26 NBA schedule was announced this week, and the defending Eastern Conference champs will start their season off at home. In a rematch of the 2025 NBA Finals, the Pacers host the Oklahoma City Thunder after their thrilling seven-game series just a few months ago. Much to their dismay, Indiana begins the season without familiar faces like Tyrese Haliburton and former Pacer Myles Turner. Debuting a new starting lineup against OKC, can Indiana have a successful season with their given schedule?

Key Games on the Schedule to Watch

Haliburton’s heroics during the 2025 NBA Postseason produced memorable moments and created modern rivals for the Pacers. While matchups with the Bucks, Knicks, and Thunder will still be intriguing, his absence dims down the excitement for this year. Nonetheless, Myles Turner’s return to Gainbridge Fieldhouse on November 3rd is a must-watch for any NBA fan, after his departure left members in the organization harboring ill will. On December 18th, the New York Knicks visit Indiana for the first time since last year's Eastern Conference Finals, reigniting the Pacers-Knicks decades-old rivalry. Then on December 26th, the Pacers have a Boxing Day matchup with the injury-riddled Boston Celtics.

NBA Cup Group

The Indiana Pacers are no strangers to success in the two-year-old NBA Cup. Finishing second in the inaugural edition of the tournament, the Pacers will look to prioritize their success in the cup once again. In 2025, Indiana was drawn into East Group A, along with the Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Washington Wizards, and Toronto Raptors. They will begin group play at home against the Atlanta Hawks on Halloween night.

A Building Year for Indiana

The announcement of Indiana’s schedule hasn’t changed their focus for the season, other than potentially prioritizing an open NBA Cup Group. As Tyrese Haliburton’s return to the court has been ruled out until next year, the Pacers begin their fight for a playoff spot against a familiar foe on Opening Day. With Head coach Rick Carlisle expected to use this season to develop some of their younger, more inexperienced players, Indiana has a favorable Cup Group to give these players the “meaningful” games they need. While title contention this year seems to be a stretch without Haliburton, this season could be a key building year towards future playoff success upon his return.