Why does Tyrese Haliburton have tape on his lower right leg in Game 3 of the NBA Finals? Is he injured?

The Indiana Pacers lost Game 2 against the Oklahoma City Thunder to even the NBA Finals to 1-1 in the series. After the game, Pacers’ All-star guard Tyrese Haliburton showed visible signs of discomfort in his lower leg. And although he says he’s “fine” for Game 3, some fans may have noticed something was off.

Haliburton wearing tape, insisting he’s “fine”

On Sunday after Game 2, it was clear Haliburton was not fine. He was slow and favoring his right leg. But by Tuesday, he was moving well during practice and not showing signs of being limited by an injury.

But one thing did stand out to fans who paid attention - black kinesiology tape on his lower right leg. The tape went down from his Achilles to his ankle.

Still, he insisted he’s “fine” and ready to play in Game 3, though he refused to elaborate more on the injury - if we can call it that.

“Really just a lower leg thing. I’ll leave it at that,” said Haliburton. “I don’t think there’s anything more to elaborate.”

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle did not confirm that Haliburton was a full participant and did acknowledge that he has some discomfort still. But he emphasized the fact that it’s improving and won’t prevent him from being able to play.

Haliburton has struggled in the series so far, shooting just 33% from deep with no free throw attempts and a limited presence in the paint, mostly due to tough defense from Thunder’s Lu Dort. If he does play at full capacity, he can help the Pacers take back the lead.

Game 3 begins at 8:30 p.m. ET and you can follow along with all our live text coverage of the game right here on AS USA, brought to you by our own Dane Arlauckas.

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