What happened: Tyrese Haliburton drove into the paint and dished to Ivica Zubac for an interior score while building a double-digit halftime advantage in preseason play. The connection extended the early exhibition rapport between a pair that combined for 37 points in a preseason half on Oct. 14.

Why it matters: Haliburton's downhill burst in exhibition play serves as a primary tune-up for the 2026-27 campaign after making his first home preseason appearance since the 2025 Finals. Sharpening interior timing with Zubac, a veteran center entering his 11th season in No. 40, sets the half-court foundation prior to regular-season play.

What to watch: Minute allocations for veteran starters remain the focus through the second half as preparations wrap up for the 2026-27 regular-season schedule.