Part 6/8:
Despite the harrowing circumstances, one could argue that the urgency of the moment warranted an all-out effort to play Haliburton. Many would agree; if a player's contribution could mean the difference between a championship or a failed season, the choice appears clear—make the player play. The Pacers' management might have felt that having Haliburton, even at diminished capacity, would offer a critical edge, particularly when negotiating the fine line of competitive advantage.
The coach and front office were likely evaluating Haliburton's potential contribution in the face of adversity—not as a mere statistic, but as a testament to the team's grit. The emotional atmosphere during the game indicated belief in a miracle; an ability to conjure a win against all odds after losing their star.