Indiana Pacers’ magical playoff run has hit turbulence, and the frustration from fans is now directed squarely at head coach Rick Carlisle. Following Indiana’s loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game Five of the NBA Finals, Pacers supporters lit up social media with criticism over Carlisle’s late-game rotation choices.
The key point of anger came midway through the second half when veteran guard T.J. McConnell helped spark a third-quarter surge, scoring 13 points on 6-of-7 shooting and bringing Indiana back into contention. Despite McConnell’s hot hand, Carlisle opted to start the fourth quarter with Tyrese Haliburton, who was clearly limited by a hamstring injury. The decision drew immediate backlash. “TJ McConnell dragged the Pacers back into the game in the 3rd,” one fan posted online. “Then Carlisle benched him for Hali. Coaching malpractice.”
For many supporters, it was a missed opportunity to ride momentum in a crucial Finals game. While Haliburton is the face of the franchise and an All-NBA guard, his struggles were evident. The substitution slowed Indiana’s rhythm, and the Thunder quickly regained control, eventually closing out the game.
Carlisle’s game management has been a talking point throughout the postseason. While his experience and tactical discipline were instrumental in guiding Indiana to its first Finals appearance in 24 years, critics argue that his loyalty to established stars sometimes overshadows in-game adjustments. The Game Five episode only amplified those concerns.
The backlash intensified further when Carlisle defended referee Scott Foster after controversial calls in Game Four, labeling the online criticism of the official “stupid.” That comment didn’t sit well with Pacers fans, who already felt that officiating had tilted against them in the series.
Still, Carlisle’s tenure has not been without praise. He led the Pacers to a 50–32 record in the regular season and orchestrated a series of impressive playoff victories, including a stunning upset over the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. For many, the frustration is less about his overall coaching resume and more about crucial split-second decisions that can swing the outcome of championship games.
With the Pacers now facing elimination, Carlisle’s adjustments—or lack thereof—will remain under the microscope. Fans are demanding sharper rotations, better clock management, and a willingness to adapt on the fly. The Finals may ultimately define not only this season but Carlisle’s legacy in Indiana, and the pressure has never been higher.
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