What happened: Kendrick Perkins said Tyrese Haliburton belongs among the league's top guards. Perkins framed the statement as a public apology for his prior stance.

Why it matters: The shift comes with Haliburton back on court for the same Haliburton who connected from deep in preseason action. LeBron James said on Mind the Game that a healthy Haliburton makes Indiana a contender.

What to watch: Indiana continues preseason play ahead of the 2026-27 tip. Further full-action outings will test the early form.