Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers: NBA Finals Game Five Preview
The Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers are set for a crucial Game Five in the 2025 NBA Finals at the PayCom Center on Tuesday, with the series tied 2-2. After a tense victory in Game Four, the Thunder aim to seize a pivotal 3-2 lead.
In a dramatic turnaround, the Thunder secured a 111-104 win in Game Four, overcoming a four-point deficit in the final minutes with a stunning 12-1 run. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP, played a decisive role, scoring 35 points and setting a record for the most clutch points in NBA Finals history. This victory also saw the Thunder break the record for the most total points (12,205) scored in a single postseason and regular season combined.
The Pacers, who have struggled offensively in crunch moments, will be eager to rebound after a disappointing fourth quarter in Game Four, where they scored just 17 points. Coach Rick Carlisle’s team had previously been in a stronger position in the playoffs, recalling a past comeback from a 3-1 deficit 25 years ago.
Injury news plays a significant role, with Jarace Walker out for the Pacers due to an ankle injury and Isaiah Jackson sidelined with a calf issue. Meanwhile, the Thunder will miss Nikola Topic, who is recovering from an ACL injury.
Analysts predict that the Thunder will emerge victorious by at least seven points, underscoring the importance of winning at home to avoid returning to Indiana facing potential elimination. As both teams prepare for this high-stakes clash, fans can expect a thrilling contest that could determine the trajectory of the series.
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