Pacers vs. Celtics: Game 2 Odds & Analysis | NBA Finals
- The Indiana Pacers, defying expectations, snatched a dramatic Game 1 victory from the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals.
- Despite the stunning win, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle maintains a grounded outlook.
- Oddsmakers at BetMGM, seemingly unfazed by the Pacers' comeback, have installed Indiana as 10.5-point underdogs for Game 2, a slight increase from their 9.5-point underdog status in Game...
The Indiana Pacers stunned the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, overcoming a 15-point deficit to steal a crucial victory. tyrese Haliburton’s clutch performance sealed the deal, but oddsmakers still favor the Thunder in Game 2, installing the Pacers as 10.5-point underdogs. This remarkable turnaround, driven by the Pacers’ resilience in correcting their turnover issues and fueled by a chip-on-the-shoulder mentality, sets the stage for an electrifying Game 2. While Chet Holmgren‘s defensive impact for Oklahoma City was undeniable, Indiana’s historic win – the first since 1971 to achieve such a comeback – highlights their determination. For up-to-the-minute analysis of the second game, be sure to check News Directory 3. Discover what’s next in this pivotal NBA Finals series.
Pacers Steal Game 1, Thunder Face Pressure in NBA Finals
Updated June 8, 2025
The Indiana Pacers, defying expectations, snatched a dramatic Game 1 victory from the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals. Trailing by 15 points with just under 10 minutes remaining, the Pacers rallied, with Tyrese Haliburton delivering the decisive lead with a mere 0.3 seconds on the clock.
Despite the stunning win, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle maintains a grounded outlook. “We know we’re a pretty heavy underdog here,” Carlisle said before Game 1, a sentiment seemingly unchanged by the outcome. The victory,however,prevents any complacency as Indiana prepares for Game 2 on Sunday night.
Oddsmakers at BetMGM, seemingly unfazed by the Pacers’ comeback, have installed Indiana as 10.5-point underdogs for Game 2, a slight increase from their 9.5-point underdog status in Game 1. This perceived slight, according to Haliburton, fuels the team’s competitive fire. The Pacers, he said, “take everything personal as a group,” using external doubt as motivation.
Indiana demonstrated resilience in Game 1, notably in correcting their turnover woes. after a shaky first half with 19 turnovers, they tightened up, committing only five in the second half. Carlisle acknowledged the Thunder’s defensive prowess, noting, “They are a menace defensively.”
Oklahoma city’s Chet Holmgren proved a significant obstacle, disrupting the Pacers’ offensive flow with his length and defensive rotations.Despite Holmgren’s impact, Thunder coach Mark Daigneault’s decision to bench him late in the game raised eyebrows, especially as the Pacers mounted their comeback.
The Pacers’ Game 1 win marked a historic achievement, becoming the first team since 1971 to win an NBA Finals game after trailing by at least nine points in the final three minutes. Now, they aim to replicate the feat of the 1995 Houston Rockets and secure a 2-0 series lead on the road.
What’s next
The Pacers and Thunder face off in game 2 on Sunday night. Indiana hopes to capitalize on their momentum and take a commanding lead,while Oklahoma City seeks to rebound and defend their home court.