Pacers Walker is likely to be reimbursed for the season, Carlisle: His injury is improving but his chances of returning are very small

June 16th News Earlier, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle revealed that the team's substitute Jarace Walker is likely to miss all the remaining games of the finals.

Walker has been missing due to a sprained right ankle since the start of the NBA Finals and has not returned yet. Carlisle said: "He is recovering well now, no longer having to use crutches, and he has a little limp when walking. So he is very unlikely to come back in this series. But he is indeed getting better. If he can play, it will definitely help us."

In the regular season this season, Walker played a more important role in the Pacers' bench lineup, averaging 15.8 minutes per game, contributing 6.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists, shooting 47.2% from the field, 40.5% from three-pointers and 66.7% from free throws. But after entering the playoffs, Carlisle tightened the rotation, and Walker's playing time was reduced to 9.8 minutes per game.

With Walker's absence, Obi Toppin became the Pacers' more relied on the frontcourt substitute in the series, and even frequently appeared on the court at the end of the game, taking on greater responsibilities.

At present, the Pacers and the Thunder have a 2-2 draw, and the fifth key battle will start in Oklahoma City tomorrow.