The excitement is palpable as the 2025 NBA Finals matchup is officially set, featuring the Indiana Pacers squaring off against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Game 1 is scheduled to tip off on June 5, presenting both teams with an opportunity to be crowned champions. The Pacers earned their spot in the Finals by defeating the New York Knicks in a hard-fought six-game series in the Eastern Conference finals. Meanwhile, the Thunder dispatched the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games to claim the Western Conference title. Despite the Thunder being heavy favorites (-700 according to DraftKings), the Pacers have embraced their underdog status throughout the playoffs, and this series promises to be an electrifying battle between two strategically adept teams.
As we look forward to the start of the NBA Finals, several key storylines are emerging that could significantly impact the series. Here are three crucial narratives to watch:
The matchup between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Thunder and Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers is poised to be the main attraction of the Finals. Haliburton has made a name for himself in the Eastern Conference, showcasing his skills and earning recognition from fellow players who previously dubbed him the most overrated player in the league. While Haliburton typically focuses on playmaking—often accumulating assists rather than pursuing high-volume scoring—his standout performance in Game 4 against the Knicks (32 points, 15 assists, 12 rebounds, four steals, zero turnovers) proved he can excel in both areas without sacrificing his team's dynamics.
However, Haliburton will face his toughest defensive challenge yet against the Thunder, who are likely to deploy multiple defenders to disrupt his rhythm. Alex Caruso demonstrated his physicality against Anthony Edwards in the Western Conference finals, and he could use similar tactics to challenge Haliburton. Nevertheless, the Pacers' superior ball movement compared to the Timberwolves may mitigate these defensive efforts.
Conversely, the Pacers will need to strategize how to contain Gilgeous-Alexander, who recently earned the NBA MVP and Western Conference Finals MVP titles. Utilizing his length and basketball IQ, SGA has consistently penetrated defenses, finishing plays effectively or drawing fouls to get to the free-throw line. While Indiana lacks a defender of Jaden McDaniels' caliber, Aaron Nesmith has shown promise in his defensive assignments, notably against Jalen Brunson. It will be crucial for Nesmith to manage his fouls effectively as he takes on the challenge of guarding Gilgeous-Alexander.
Another critical factor in this series will be the depth of both teams. The Thunder possess a slight edge in terms of depth, as their ninth player in the rotation is likely stronger than the Pacers' eighth or seventh. However, depth does not always guarantee success on the court. Jalen Williams showcased his All-Star potential against the Timberwolves, but struggled against the Nuggets, highlighting the inconsistency that can arise from relying on depth alone. The Thunder will look to Chet Holmgren to step up if Williams falters, while Caruso's surprising 20-point game indicates the need for reliable performances from role players to support the stars.
In contrast, the Pacers employ a more balanced scoring approach, with all five starters averaging double-digit points. Their bench unit ranks as one of the top three scoring groups in the postseason. For Indiana to succeed, players like Nesmith, Andrew Nembhard, and Myles Turner must deliver consistent performances. Turner, in particular, is expected to be an X-factor, needing to capitalize on potential mismatches against Holmgren or Isaiah Hartenstein. The Pacers can utilize their offensive strategy to create space for Haliburton to maneuver effectively.
Both the Thunder and Pacers share more than just a spot in the Finals; they also represent small market teams making significant strides in the NBA. This matchup symbolizes a victory for franchises that often operate under the radar. Central to both teams' success are young All-Star point guards and front offices led by executives who honed their skills under R.C. Buford with the San Antonio Spurs—Sam Presti for the Thunder and Kevin Pritchard for the Pacers.
A unique connection between these two teams is the trade involving Paul George, which significantly influenced their paths to the Finals. The Pacers traded George to the Thunder in July 2017, receiving Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis in return. While this trade marked the end of an exciting era for Indiana, it ultimately set the stage for the franchise's resurgence, particularly with the subsequent acquisition of Haliburton.
For the Thunder, George’s tenure included two All-Star seasons, but his desire to play in Los Angeles led to a blockbuster trade with the Clippers. This deal not only provided the Thunder with their franchise centerpiece in Gilgeous-Alexander but also yielded critical assets for future success, including Jalen Williams. The unexpected outcomes of the George trade have shaped both franchises into formidable contenders for the championship.
As the NBA Finals approach, fans can anticipate a thrilling series that highlights the resilience and talent of both the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder. With key matchups, depth considerations, and a shared history, this clash promises to be one for the ages.
