The Oklahoma City Thunder got their rhythm back after an easy Game 2 win. Can they continue pushing through in Indiana?
Catch the game tomorrow at 8:00 AM, Manila time.
AWAY: Oklahoma City Thunder (1-1)
Projected starting five:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
- Luguentz Dort
- Jalen Williams
- Chet Holmgren
- Isaiah Hartenstein
The Thunder responded to their heartbreaking Game 1 collapse with a dominant 123-107 Game 2 victory, proving their mental toughness and championship pedigree. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to shine as the newly crowned MVP, averaging 36.0 points, 5.5 assists, and 3.5 steals in the series while relentlessly attacking Indiana’s defense. However, OKC needs more from its supporting cast—Jalen Williams (18.0 PPG on 33.3% shooting) and Chet Holmgren (10.5 PPG, 6.0 RPG) must elevate their play to avoid another late-game letdown.
Alex Caruso’s breakout 20-point performance in Game 2 (including four threes) and Isiah Hartenstein’s steady interior presence have provided crucial support. The Thunder’s defense, which stifled Indiana in Game 2, must maintain its intensity to prevent the Pacers from finding their rhythm. With the series shifting to Indianapolis, OKC knows they can’t afford to relax—Indiana’s resilience and ability to rally demand a full 48-minute effort.
HOME: Indiana Pacers (1-1)
Projected starting five:
- Tyrese Haliburton
- Andrew Nembhard
- Aaron Nesmith
- Pascal Siakam
- Myles Turner
The Pacers’ magical Game 1 comeback – erasing a 15-point fourth-quarter deficit – was followed by a flat Game 2 showing, highlighting their inconsistency. Indiana’s fast-paced, unpredictable offense remains dangerous, but falling into early holes is a risky habit, especially against a disciplined Thunder squad. Tyrese Haliburton, who has flipped a switch between brilliant and quiet, must find steadiness as the team’s floor general.
Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner anchor the frontcourt, while Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, and energizer TJ McConnell provide perimeter firepower. Ben Mathurin and Obi Toppin add explosive scoring off the bench, giving the Pacers the depth to swing momentum in an instant. Backed by a raucous home crowd, Indiana must dictate tempo early and avoid another sluggish start. If their role players rise to the occasion, the Pacers can reclaim control of the series, but they’ll need a complete performance to outduel OKC’s star power.
PICKS:
Spread: Thunder (-5.5)
Over/Under: Over (228)
