The matchup for the 2025 NBA Finals is confirmed, with the Indiana Pacers facing off against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Game 1 is slated to start on June 5. Both teams have demonstrated their combat readiness and will vie for the championship title.
The Pacers made it to this stage by defeating the New York Knicks in six games during the Eastern Conference finals, while the Thunder triumphed over the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games to secure the Western Conference title. As heavy favorites to start (-700 by DraftKings), the Thunder face a Pacers team that has operated as an underdog throughout the playoffs.
While this matchup may not have been anticipated, fans can expect an exciting series between two strategically adept teams that have proven their capability to clinch the championship. Looking ahead to the NBA Finals, here are three early narratives that will play a crucial role in this series.
Key Player Matchup
The spotlight will undoubtedly be on Tyrese Haliburton, who has cruised through the Eastern Conference playoffs, challenging perceptions of him as the league’s most overrated player. While he’s more likely to facilitate play than score heavily, his performance in Game 4 against the Knicks (32 points, 15 assists, 12 rebounds, and zero turnovers) showed he can do both effectively.
Now, Haliburton faces his toughest challenge yet against a robust Thunder defense. Alex Caruso was a formidable opponent for Anthony Edwards in the last round, employing a physicality that could disrupt Haliburton’s rhythm. However, the Pacers’ superior ball movement may counter that approach.
The Importance of Bench Depth
Both teams possess commendable depth, with the Thunder having a slight advantage in talent. However, depth does not always equate to consistent on-court performance. Jalen Williams shined against the Timberwolves but struggled against the Nuggets, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of playoff performance.
The Pacers rely less on individual scoring, with all five of their starting players averaging double digits. Their bench unit ranks as one of the highest-scoring in the playoffs. To succeed, Indiana will need contributors like Aaron Nesmith, Andrew Nembhard, and Myles Turner to deliver effective performances.
Shared Connections
Beyond being the last teams standing, both the Thunder and Pacers share key similarities. They represent smaller markets in the league, making their matchup a triumph for “the underdogs.” Each team is led by young All-Star point guards and front offices connected to Sam Presti and Kevin Pritchard, who both began their careers under R.C. Buford at the San Antonio Spurs. Additionally, Paul George plays a significant role in linking these franchises.
