INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers celebrated their 125-108 triumph over the New York Knicks in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals on Saturday night. However, the victory was dampened by an injury to forward Jarace Walker, who left the court on crutches after sustaining a right ankle injury. Coach Rick Carlisle expressed uncertainty regarding Walker’s ability to play in the upcoming NBA Finals.
With Game 1 scheduled for Thursday night in Oklahoma City, Walker has four days to recuperate. Carlisle remains hopeful due to Walker’s youth but admits, “I did not see a replay so I don’t know how much, how far it turned over, how much weight he had on it. But when a guy goes down and stays down like that, you’re always holding your breath.”
The incident occurred early in the fourth quarter while Walker was defending, as his right leg twisted in an awkward manner. Despite remaining on the court for two more possessions, he eventually had to crawl off with assistance from two trainers and was directed straight to the locker room. Unfortunately, Walker did not return to the game.
Throughout the series with the Knicks, Walker’s playing time was limited, yet he managed to make an impact on Saturday, scoring two points from his only shot attempt in just seven minutes of play. The 2023 first-round draft pick, selected 8th overall by Indiana, now faces uncertain prospects for the finals.