Walker to Miss First Two NBA Finals Games

INDIANAPOLIS: Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle announced Monday that Jarace Walker will be sidelined for the initial two contests of the NBA Finals due to a right ankle injury.

The Finals are set to commence this Thursday in Oklahoma City against the Thunder.

Carlisle mentioned on The Fan radio in Indianapolis that Walker’s injury will necessitate a period of recovery.

“He’s expected to be out for some time. The exact duration is uncertain, but he will definitely be unavailable for the first two games of the finals,” Carlisle stated.

Walker sustained the injury during Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Saturday. He twisted his right ankle while attempting to defend a shot by Karl-Anthony Towns of the New York Knicks.

The Pacers advanced to the NBA Finals for the first time in 25 years, defeating the Knicks 125-108 in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Saturday.

Game 3 of the best-of-seven NBA Finals is scheduled for June 11. Carlisle believes the schedule might benefit Walker’s recovery.

“The extended duration of the finals series provides him with an opportunity to heal,” Carlisle noted.

“He will undergo comprehensive treatment and is highly motivated to return. He has consistently been diligent whenever he has experienced any minor setbacks,” he added.

Walker, 21, is currently in his second NBA season. He has participated in 12 of the Pacers’ 16 postseason games, averaging 3.0 points and 1.8 rebounds in 9.8 minutes per game.