NBA Finals Indiana Pacers vs. Thunder Game 2: Preview, Betti...
NBA Finals Indiana Pacers vs. Thunder Game 2: Preview, Betting Odds, and Prediction
NBA Finals Indiana Pacers vs. Thunder Game 2: Preview, Betting Odds, and Prediction
The stage is set for Game 2 of the NBA Finals as the Indiana Pacers look to build on their shocking Game 1 comeback victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The action tips off at 8 PM ET on Sunday, June 8, at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. Fans can catch the game live on ABC or Listen on 93.5 & 107.5 The Fan.
Recap of Game 1
The Pacers pulled off a dramatic 111-110 win in Game 1, thanks to a clutch jumper from Tyrese Haliburton with just 0.3 seconds left.
The stunning victory came after Indiana trailed by 15 points in the fourth quarter.
Haliburton, who finished with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, continued his spectacular postseason by hitting his fourth game-winning shot of these playoffs.
Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Obi Toppin came off the bench to add 17 points.
For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was unstoppable, dropping 38 points, but his efforts weren’t enough to fend off Indiana’s relentless comeback.
Key Players to Watch
For the Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton remains the engine of their offense with his playmaking and clutch shooting.
Pascal Siakam’s ability to attack the rim and dominate the boards will also be critical.
Obi Toppin’s shooting and energy off the bench could once again provide a necessary spark.
The Thunder, on the other hand, will lean on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to bounce back after the team’s Game 1 collapse.
Jalen Williams, who contributed 17 points, and the defensive prowess of Lu Dort will be key in containing Indiana’s balanced attack.
Betting Odds
The Thunder, despite their Game 1 loss, remain heavy favorites for Game 2.
They are listed as 11-point favorites, with a money line of -520, while the Pacers sit at +390. The over/under for the game is set at 228.5 points.
These odds reflect Oklahoma City’s dominance at home, where they’ve maintained one of the league’s best records this season.
Prediction
The Pacers have showcased remarkable resilience throughout this postseason, proving time and again they’re capable of stealing big games on the road.
However, the Thunder will likely come out with a sense of urgency to avoid falling into a daunting 2-0 hole before the series shifts to Indiana. BUT don’t count out Indiana!
Pacers +11.
