Date: June 11, 2025
Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana
The 2025 NBA Finals are all tied up at 1-1 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers as the series heads to Indiana for Game 3. The Thunder, who wrapped up the regular season with an impressive 68 wins, are aiming to use their depth and talent to seize control of the series. On the other hand, the Pacers have demonstrated their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, pulling off an incredible comeback in Game 1 before falling to a strong Thunder showing in Game 2 at Oklahoma City.
Game 3 is crucial. The Pacers are looking to take advantage of playing at home and get back in the lead of the series, while the Thunder want to gain some momentum and steer clear of going down 2-1 in a series that might stretch to seven games.
Team Form and Key Players
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder have shown a mix of offensive strength and defensive toughness. With reigning Kia MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge, who lit it up for 34 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds in Game 2, OKC’s offense is both lively and effective. Supporting SGA is All-NBA wing Jalen Williams, whose adaptability and scoring skills have been vital during the playoffs. Veteran guard Alex Caruso brings perimeter shooting and defensive toughness, chipping in 20 points and hitting 4 three-pointers in Game 2.
On the defensive end, the Thunder are great at throwing off their opponents’ flow, creating turnovers (25 just in Game 1) and aggressively contesting shots. But they’ve got a clear weakness when it comes to defending corner three-pointers, which the Pacers took advantage of in Game 1 by hitting 63% from those areas. To stop those open corner shots, the Thunder really need to improve their rotations and communication.
Indiana Pacers
The Pacers have turned out to be the unexpected highlight of the playoffs, demonstrating calmness and clutch plays. Tyrese Haliburton, the standout point guard for the team, has been a reliable offensive force, especially with his game-winning shot in Game 1 and a strong 17-point, 6-assist showing in Game 2, even though they lost. Pascal Siakam holds down the frontcourt, contributing with scoring, rebounding, and a solid defensive presence.
The Pacers are strong because they can bounce back and adapt during the game, which was clear in their second-half comeback in Game 1 after a rough beginning. Their defense aims to throw off the Thunder’s inside game and push them into taking tough shots from the outside. On the offensive side, Indiana excels at moving the ball around and taking advantage of fast-break chances.
Tactical Matchups and Keys to Victory
Thunder’s Keys to Victory:
Mental Recovery and Focus: Following the tight loss in Game 1, the Thunder need to stay calm and not allow the Pacers’ comeback to shake their confidence. Their ability to recover from tough situations will be key.
Corner Three Defense: Stopping those open corner threes is crucial. The Thunder really need to step up their defensive discipline and communication to prevent the mistakes that let Indiana shoot so well in Game 1.
Balanced Scoring Attack: As Gilgeous-Alexander takes the lead, it’s crucial for Jalen Williams, Alex Caruso, and the rest of the team to step up and keep the Pacers’ defense on their toes.
Pacers’ Keys to Victory:
Haliburton’s Playmaking: Tyrese Haliburton is the key player for Indiana’s offense. His skills in generating scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates will play a crucial role.
Frontcourt Physicality: Pascal Siakam and the Pacers’ big guys need to take on the Thunder in the paint, cut down on second-chance points, and dominate the rebounds.
Perimeter Shooting: Consistently making corner threes and other open shots will keep the Thunder defense on its toes and open up driving lanes.
Considering the Thunder’s impressive talent, depth, and the advantage of playing at home in the upcoming games, along with the Pacers’ determination and support from their fans, Game 3 is likely to be very competitive. Still, the Thunder’s ability to make defensive adjustments and executing their offense should provide them with the upper hand.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Indiana Pacers 112 – Oklahoma City Thunder 118
The Thunder are probably going to pull off a tough win on the road, giving them a 2-1 series lead as they head back to Oklahoma City. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to shine, with solid backing from Jalen Williams and Alex Caruso. Meanwhile, the Pacers will depend a lot on Haliburton and Siakam to keep the game competitive.