It appears there’s no credible evidence or report that Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle has banned center Myles Turner from anything. What’s actually going on are health and contract discussions—not a disciplinary ban.
🏥 1. Health updates and illness management
- After Game 3 of the NBA Finals on June 11, 2025, Carlisle revealed that Turner was “under the weather,” struggling with a cold that affected his conditioning and might even keep him out of practice or Game 4 (essentiallysports.com).
- Earlier in the season, Turner sustained a neck injury on February 6, which Carlisle later described as serious enough to sideline him through the All-Star break (si.com). Throughout this period, players like Thomas Bryant and Jahlil Okafor filled in.
🤝 2. Re-signing Myles Turner: a priority for the Pacers
- With Turner entering free agency this summer, Carlisle—speaking on June 24 and 25, 2025—emphasized that re-signing Turner is their top offseason goal (si.com, ipacers.com).
- Carlisle praised Turner’s impact on both ends of the floor, calling him someone who “unlocks a lot of what I do” and labelling his retention the “No. 1 priority” for the franchise (hoopshype.com).
🧘♂️ 3. Evolving coach-player relationship
- Turner has spoken positively about Carlisle’s coaching style:
“He’s still the same coach. But he’s taken a more Zen approach … he’s kind of a cooler head.” (hoopshype.com)
- Carlisle has shifted from being confrontational to more collaborative, empowering players and seeking stronger relationships .
✅ Summary – No Ban, Just Boss Moves
| Subject | Reality |
|---|---|
| “Ban” claims | No ban reported or substantiated |
| Health | Turner was managing illness and a neck injury |
| Coach-player dynamic | Carlisle is protective and supportive |
| Offseason focus | Re-signing Turner is a top priority |
🔍 Bottom Line
Rick Carlisle has not banned Myles Turner. Instead:
- He’s been transparent about health concerns that have impacted Turner’s practice and playing time.
- He has publicly stated that retaining Turner is the primary offseason goal.
- His leadership approach has grown more collaborative and centered on building relationships.
If you’ve seen the rumor about a “ban,” it’s likely a misinterpretation of these health and management updates. Let me know if you’d like deeper insight into the contract talks, Pacers’ roster strategy, or how Turner’s availability might affect next season’s rotation.
