Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin dealing with injuries ahead of Indiana Pacers tilt with Boston Celtics

The Pacers backcourt is banged up

The Indiana Pacers face their toughest test of the season on Wednesday night as they take on the Boston Celtics in the TD Garden. Boston's star-studded lineup will be difficult for Indiana.

The game could be even more challenging as the Pacers are dealing with some health issues. Head coach Rick Carlisle spoke with media members after his team practiced on Tuesday, and he explained the injuries that guards Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin are dealing with.

Haliburton has an ankle injury. Carlisle shared that the star point guard stepped on Indiana big man Jalen Smith's foot during Pacers-Bulls on Monday, and that led to the injury. He missed practice entirely, which was Haliburton's second missed practice in a week. He was sick last week.

"Ty's ankle is a little banged up today. He didn't practice," the head coach shared.

Bennedict Mathurin also missed Indiana's practice on Tuesday — he was in daily attire. Mathurin has a right elbow injury that he suffered during the first half against Chicago. He finished the game with 4/11 shooting from the field, though he made all six of his foul shots.

Mathurin was scheduled to see a doctor on Tuesday. His status going forward is to be determined.

"Those guys will be likely listed as questionable, at best. We'll see where they are tomorrow," Carlisle said after practice.

Missing either player would be tough for the Pacers, who are 2-1 on the season. The Celtics are a tough opponent. Andrew Nembhard, T.J. McConnell, and Buddy Hield could all see bigger roles if either player is absent. If both players are out, an out-of-the-rotation player could see playing time. Ben Sheppard, Jarace Walker, and Jordan Nwora are the top candidates in that situation.

Official injury reports will begin to be released as the game approaches.

---

• Tyrese Haliburton's series of mini-victories, including over a heckler, guide Indiana Pacers to win vs Cavaliers. CLICK HERE.
• Source: Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle agrees to contract extension. CLICK HERE.
• Indiana Pacers unveil new court for 2023-24 In-Season Tournament games. CLICK HERE.
• Indiana Pacers improve to 2-0 with a gutsy road win over Cleveland Cavaliers. CLICK HERE.
• Follow AllPacers on Facebook: All Pacers SI
• Follow AllPacers on Twitter: @SIPacers