Pascal Siakam (Image Credits: Imagn)

Pascal Siakam Fires Back at Tanking Narrative Surrounding the Indiana Pacers

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports
By Debmallya Chakraborty | Last updated Feb 15, 2026 11:17 AM ET

The Indiana Pacers and the Utah Jazz are in some serious trouble at the moment. Critics have accused the Pacers of tanking because of some questionable roster rotations. But as Indiana has been slapped with a hefty fine, Pascal Siakam has clapped back with his own take on the matter.

In a recent development, NBA commissioner Adam Silver clarified his stance on tanking. Issuing a stern warning, Silver stated that the NBA will not tolerate any actions that go against the spirit of the game. Reacting to the same, Siakam has now taken an interesting stance. He seemed confused as to why the Pacers were being fined.

“I don’t know where that comes from… I play almost every game, I have the most minutes,” said Siakam in an interview with SiriusXM NBA Radio.

"Every time I'm on the court, I'm trying to win."

Pacers All-Star Pascal Siakam does not want to be included in conversations about tanking.

For full NBA All-Star coverage, click here – https://t.co/j3RPgmlH7e pic.twitter.com/kzU0bNDNgl
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) February 15, 2026

As a matter of fact, the Pacers failed to provide a pinpointed report about their injured stars. Thus, the league fined the franchise $100,000. Meanwhile, as the Pacers try to rise above all the negatives, the 31-year-old recently reflected on Tyrese Haliburton’s injury.

Pascal Siakam Speaks About Life Without Tyrese Haliburton

Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam (Photo By Imagn Images)

Tyrese Haliburton was one of the biggest stars for the Pacers last year. While he has shared some encouraging rehab updates, his absence has surely impacted the Pacers. And Siakam shared an honest opinion on how Haliburton has been supporting his team, even from the bench.

“He’s been great. He’s been awesome. I talk to him every day. Just to see how involved he is, I know injuries are hard. I couldn’t tell you how I would be if I was in his shoes. It’s tough mentally. But he’s been awesome. He’s been there every single day with us. He’s coaching everyone. He’s being a part of the team. He’s been great about that,” said Siakam.

Thus, with things looking clouded, fans will now wait to see what’s next.

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

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