Tuesday seems like a promising day. The 2025 Playoffs train is back at Gianbridge Fieldhouse. This means the Indiana Pacers are ready to face the Milwaukee Bucks in the second game of the 7-game playoff series. Most importantly, after winning the first game 117-98 against Giannis Antetokounmpo, Tyrese Haliburton is brimming with confidence. And it looks like they are up for any challenge, even if it means Damian Lillard’s return.

Haliburton and Dame have always had a healthy rivalry on the floor. Even in Game 1, they had their moment of back-and-forth with Lillard on the sidelines. So, heading out of the gym on Tuesday, the 25-year-old Pacers star made his feelings clear on his rivals.

Speaking to the media, Tyrese Haliburton said, “I think we gotta do a better job of— we expect to see some more zone probably from them.” He emphasized the need for better execution against potential defensive zone setups. Haliburton added: “You know, who knows if when Dame’s coming back, that could happen at any time. I wouldn’t be surprised if it happened tomorrow. So we gotta be prepared for whatever that is.” 

Haliburton continued, “I think understanding that in the playoffs, it ain’t about individual performances. It’s just about winning. So we know every game’s going to call on somebody different. Some games are going to call on me to have a big game. Pascal, a big game. Myles, Aaron, Andrew, Ben, Jar, T.J.—all the guys in rotation.” In the first game, it was indeed Pascal Siakam’s big night for the Indiana Pacers. He scored 25 points while Tyrese managed only 10.

Meanwhile, Tyrese Haliburton also believes that Ben Sheppard will have his time to shine. He didn’t play in the first playoff game. However, just like everyone on the Indiana Pacers’ roster, he must stay prepared to answer the call. “I think it comes down to our preparation. Everybody’s understanding that. We’re all in here early getting our work in, getting our lifts in. You see guys in here extra after practice. That’s all important because everybody’s got to be ready when their name is called,” the Pacers point guard concluded.

Every step should lead to winning the game and continuing their winning streak. Every summon should have an answer to winning. Meanwhile, Dame Lillard is ready to come back to the floor for the Milwaukee Bucks. Therefore, it’s easy to guess that Tuesday is going to be fiery in Indianapolis. More importantly, the veteran guard has shared his plan for Game 2. Should the Pacers feel concerned?

Damian Lillard sets his record straight as Tyrese Haliburton clears his stance on Bucks star’s comeback

Damian Lillard missed a considerable number of games in the last run of the regular season, including game 1. This is because he was ruled out after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). But, now, after months of struggles, pain, and healing, the 34-year-old is ready to hit the parquet floor against the Pacers.

Now, he’s shared a message for his rival, Tyrese Haliburton & Co. Lillard said, “I’m really just going in with intentions to be out there with the team, And imma give everything that I got. I just feel from there. Pride and heart and care, we gotta go out there and just do what you gotta do, and you gotta deal with the results. And you just gotta, you know, find a baseline to build from, and that’s what I’m gonna do.”

Damian Lillard simply expressed his commitment to giving everything he has for the team, driven by pride, heart, and care. He understood that the outcome might not always be in his control, but he believed in doing whatever it took and accepting the results. For him, it was about finding a baseline to build from and staying focused on growth.

So, both sides are ready for the action waiting to unfold. While Tyrese Haliburton  & Co. hope for a second win, Milwaukee seeks redemption. Damian Lillard is back in the mix, and things have begun to catch the heat. Drama and a lot of basketball drama await. Therefore, watch out!