In the recent NBA Finals, what we are witnessing is a remarkable transformation. Williams, a co-star for the Oklahoma City Thunder, is methodically making his way into the spotlight. His latest performance, which many are calling his greatest, has solidified this transition. With a spectacular 40 points and an impressive shooting percentage of 14-for-25, Williams demonstrated his ability to shine on the big stage at just 24 years old. This game marked the highest-scoring performance from any player in the series, and the Indiana Pacers had no answer for his onslaught.
“When he’s at his best, he plays with force,” said OKC coach Mark Daigneault. This 40-point game was not just a fluke; it was a continuation of his upward trajectory. After scoring 26 points in Game 3 and 27 in Game 4, Williams is now averaging an impressive 31 points and six rebounds over these three games. “I’m just out there being aggressive,” he commented after the game. The impact of his performance extends beyond his individual success; it significantly benefits the Thunder and their league MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. “It makes a world of difference,” Gilgeous-Alexander stated, highlighting Williams' ability to take over crucial moments in games.
Throughout the game, the Thunder maintained control, never trailing after the nine-minute mark of the first quarter. However, there were moments of tension, particularly when the lead shrank to just two points with 8:11 remaining. After a series of missed shots from Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein, it seemed like the Pacers might stage a comeback. Yet, the Thunder responded with a crucial play: Gilgeous-Alexander executed a behind-the-back pass to Lu Dort, who found an open Williams for a three-pointer, reigniting the Thunder's momentum.
Following that pivotal moment, the Pacers struggled, turning the ball over on four consecutive possessions and failing to score. This defensive disruption allowed OKC to extend their lead back into double digits. As seen in their previous games, the Thunder excelled in the fourth quarter, outscoring Indiana 31-17 in Game 4 and replicating that success with strong defense and a combined 20 points from Williams and Gilgeous-Alexander in this game. “It always starts defensively for us,” Shai noted, emphasizing the importance of their defensive strategy.
The performance of Tyrese Haliburton for the Pacers was hampered by a calf strain he sustained early in the first quarter. Despite playing 34 minutes and grabbing seven rebounds, Haliburton struggled significantly on the offensive end, missing all six of his shot attempts and finishing with just four points. The defensive pressure from OKC's Dort made it difficult for him to find his rhythm, contributing to Indiana's defeat.
Haliburton's inconsistent postseason performance raises concerns. Following standout games, he has often followed up with disappointing outings, such as scoring only four and 11 points against the Cavaliers and eight and 14 points in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Knicks. His first points in Game 5 came at the seven-minute mark of the third quarter, highlighting his struggles. “He’s not 100 percent,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle remarked, pointing out that many players are dealing with injuries at this stage of the playoffs.
In the third quarter, T.J. McConnell provided a much-needed spark for the Pacers. Known more for his playmaking than scoring, McConnell exploded for 13 points in just six minutes, surpassing his previous single-game high for the series. His ability to score when the Pacers needed it most kept Indiana in the game, showcasing his skill with pull-up jumpers and crafty layups.
Despite McConnell's strong performance, his minutes were limited in the fourth quarter, as Carlisle chose to go with Andrew Nembhard. Unfortunately, this strategy backfired, as Nembhard struggled, contributing to Indiana's inability to close the gap. “That’s T.J.,” Siakam said, acknowledging McConnell's potential to influence the game, but ultimately, it wasn't enough to secure a victory.
While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points, he also showcased his ability as a playmaker, recording 10 assists, his highest single-game total in the Finals. Balancing scoring with facilitating for his teammates, Gilgeous-Alexander's evolution as a player was evident. “He’s getting better every year in just about everything,” Daigneault remarked, noting his improvement as a playmaker and how he adjusts when defenses focus on him.
As the playoffs continue, the performances of Williams, Gilgeous-Alexander, and McConnell will be crucial for their respective teams. With the Thunder showing resilience and star potential, the excitement and anticipation for the remaining games of the Finals are palpable.
