Pacers Announce Pascal Siakam Injury Update Before Suns Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Hudson | Last updated Mar 12, 2026 2:36 PM ET

The Indiana Pacers’ season has taken a difficult turn after reaching the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder just months ago. Since losing star guard Tyrese Haliburton to a torn right Achilles tendon, Indiana has struggled to stay afloat in the Eastern Conference standings.

As Injuries continue to pile up. According to Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star, head coach Rick Carlisle announced that Andrew Nembhard “will not play tomorrow,” while Pascal Siakam sprained his knee in the Portland game and “it acted up more on the plane,” with imaging possible once the team returns to Indianapolis (h/t @DustinDopirak ). Siakam, who has carried much of the load in Haliburton’s absence, will miss tonight’s matchup against the Phoenix Suns due to a right knee sprain and illness. His absence leaves a major void in Indiana’s lineup, forcing role players into expanded minutes as the Pacers try to steady themselves during a rapidly unraveling stretch of the season.

Carlisle says Andrew Nembhard will not play tomorrow. Said Pascal Siakam sprained his knee in the Portland game and it acted up more on the plane. Said there could be imaging when they go to Indy.
— Dustin Dopirak (@DustinDopirak) March 11, 2026

Forward Pascal Siakam has elevated his game this season, taking on the primary scoring burden in Tyrese Haliburton’s absence. While the Pacers have struggled to stack wins, Siakam has averaged 24.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, shooting 48.4% from the field and 36.2% from three across 55 games. His transition scoring, polished footwork in the post, and ability to create his own shot have helped keep Indiana competitive. Defensively, his 6-foot-8 frame and 7-foot-3 wingspan allow him to switch across positions, protect the rim, and impact the game on both ends.

With Siakam sidelined, more responsibility shifts to Andrew Nembhard, who is averaging 17.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 7.4 assists while shooting 44.1% from the field and 36.2% from three in 50 games. His steady playmaking and perimeter scoring will be critical to stabilizing Indiana’s offense.

Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam (43) reacts during overtime against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. © Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Formerly known as “Spicy P” during his college days, the New Mexico State product selected 27th overall in the 2016 NBA Draft has built an elite résumé: 2019 NBA champion, four-time All-Star, two-time All-NBA selection, 2018–19 Most Improved Player, and 2024–25 Eastern Conference Finals MVP. He has developed into an amazing forward for the Pacers, stepping into the star role when needed and producing at a high level even when the wins have not followed. His individual numbers continue to shine, proving his value regardless of the team’s record.

After signing a four-year, $189.5 million maximum contract in July 2024, he is expected to remain in Indiana for the foreseeable future. However, with the Pacers near the bottom of the conference, much depends on how they respond next season. A potential No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, and the chance to select Cameron Boozer could dramatically reshape the franchise’s long-term outlook.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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