Tyrese Haliburton (Image via Getty) The Indiana Pacers will again be without Tyrese Haliburton when they play the Charlotte Hornets on January 8, 2026. Haliburton remains out after suffering a season-ending Achilles injury earlier this season.Indiana has struggled to adjust since losing its starting point guard. Haliburton was central to the Pacers’ offense, and his absence has left the team searching for steady ball movement and scoring. That challenge continues on the road in Charlotte.
Tyrese Haliburton’s Injury Situation vs Charlotte Hornets (January 8, 2026)
Tyrese Haliburton’s status is unchanged, and he will not return this season. The Pacers’ injury list remains long. Bennedict Mathurin is out with a thumb injury. Obi Toppin is sidelined due to a foot issue. Isaiah Jackson is unavailable after entering concussion protocol.With several rotation players missing, Indiana is forced to rely on depth pieces and role players for extended minutes. The lineup has changed frequently, and consistency has been hard to find.
Hornets vs Pacers Game Setup and Expectations for Jan 8
Charlotte Hornets enter the game with a record around 13–23 and is trying to end a three-game losing streak at home. The Hornets are favored by 4.5 points, with the total set at 234.5.Rebounding could play a major role. Charlotte averages 44.9 rebounds per game and may look to take advantage inside. Moussa Diabate has been a steady presence on the glass, averaging 8.3 rebounds. The Hornets are also dealing with injuries, as Mason Plumlee is out with a groin issue and Grant Williams remains sidelined with an ACL injury.
Tyrese Haliburton’s Past Success Against Charlotte
Haliburton has had strong performances against the Hornets in recent seasons. Over his last 10 games versus Charlotte, he averaged 18.2 points, 9.9 assists, and 3.6 rebounds. One of those games included a 43-point performance on November 4, 2023.He consistently created problems for Charlotte’s defense with his passing and shooting. Several matchups featured double-digit assists, and in one game he shot over 60 percent from three-point range. None of that will factor into tonight’s game.
Bigger Picture for Indiana Pacers
Without Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers’ offense has taken a clear step back, especially after the departure of Myles Turner. Recent previews have pointed out how limited the team has looked on that end of the floor.Also read: Is LaMelo Ball playing tonight vs the Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the Charotte Hornets star’s injury report (January 8, 2026)From a betting angle, attention has shifted toward Charlotte players, including assist props for LaMelo Ball, as the Hornets look to take advantage of Indiana’s lack of playmaking. For Haliburton, the focus is now on recovery and preparation for next season. At 25, he has time, but the Indiana Pacers are left to manage the rest of this year without their lead guard.