2025 NBA Finals: Storylines & Predictions | Roundtable
- The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in Game 2, tying the series after a strong defensive performance and a dominant offensive showing from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who...
- After Tyrese Haliburton's game-winning shot secured Game 1 for the Pacers, the Thunder responded with a decisive 123-107 victory.
- ESPN's NBA insiders analyze Haliburton's performance in the Finals, discuss the adjustments the Pacers need to make to rebound, and identify the series' most meaningful X factor.
After the Oklahoma City Thunder evened the series against the Indiana Pacers, experts weigh in on key adjustments needed for Game 3. Discover how the Pacers can overcome the ThunderS stifling defense, which held Tyrese Haliburton to only five points through the first three quarters in Game 2. NBA insiders break down Haliburton’s performance, offering insights on leveraging the paint and increasing pace. News Directory 3 provides in-depth analysis from the sidelines. The crucial question is: can Haliburton counter the Thunder’s strategy? find out what the experts predict and what adjustments the Pacers must make to regain control of the series. Discover what’s next …
Thunder Even Series, Experts Weigh in on Pacers’ Adjustments for Game 3
updated June 10, 2025
The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in Game 2, tying the series after a strong defensive performance and a dominant offensive showing from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 34 points. The series now moves to Indiana for Game 3 on Wednesday.
After Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning shot secured Game 1 for the Pacers, the Thunder responded with a decisive 123-107 victory. Oklahoma City’s defense limited Haliburton to just five points in the frist three quarters, preventing any chance of an Indiana comeback.
ESPN’s NBA insiders analyze Haliburton’s performance in the Finals, discuss the adjustments the Pacers need to make to rebound, and identify the series’ most meaningful X factor.
What is the biggest adjustment the Pacers need to make in Game 3?
Kevin Pelton: Rick Carlisle should consider shortening his rotation. While Indiana’s depth has been praised, the Thunder’s bench has been more effective. carlisle should increase the playing time for Haliburton and Myles Turner, as the Pacers performed better with both on the court.
Michael C.Wright: Haliburton needs to be more assertive early in games. Five shots in the first half aren’t enough for him to impact the game. By being more aggressive, he can create opportunities for his teammates.Oklahoma City’s defense deserves credit for their performance against Haliburton.
Ramona Shelburne: The Pacers need to increase their pace and run more. Despite the Thunder’s strength in transition, Indiana struggled to score in Game 2 and didn’t pressure Oklahoma city defensively. more fast-break opportunities could lead to easier scoring chances.
Bobby Marks: Indiana needs to attack the paint more.Andrew Nembhard and Pascal Siakam had a successful stretch in the second quarter by driving to the basket. This aggressiveness can also create open looks for other players, such as Aaron Nesmith. Indiana was significantly outscored in the paint before the fourth quarter.
Zach Kram: The Pacers need to capitalize on free throw opportunities. Oklahoma City struggled with free throw rate and differential during the regular season. indiana should focus on drawing fouls by attacking the basket and utilizing Siakam against smaller defenders.
Tyrese Haliburton’s Finals performance has been _____.
Ramona Shelburne: Uneven. While Haliburton hit the game-winning shot in Game 1,he admitted his overall performance was “terrible.” He didn’t improve in Game 2, largely due to the Thunder’s defensive strategy. Similar to their approach against Anthony edwards, the Thunder are trying to disrupt Haliburton early in possessions and deny him the ball. Haliburton needs to find ways to overcome this pressure and remain aggressive.
Kevin Pelton: Predictable. Haliburton has historically struggled against Oklahoma City, scoring less against them than any other opponent. Lu Dort has also defended Haliburton effectively. The Thunder’s strong defense was a key reason they were favored entering the series.
What’s next
Game 3 will be pivotal as the series shifts to Indiana. The Pacers will need to implement the suggested adjustments to regain control and protect home court. Haliburton’s ability to adapt to the Thunder’s defense will be crucial for Indiana’s success.