After winning Game 4 of the NBA Finals in thrilling fashion, the Oklahoma City Thunder are just two wins away from their first NBA Championship in the organization's young history. It took a 12-1 run down the stretch and 15 points in the fourth quarter from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but the Thunder are in a great position with the series heading back to Oklahoma City.
Gilgeous-Alexander continues to demonstrate why he was deserving of the Most Valuable Player award, averaging 32.8 points per game, which is slightly higher than his regular-season stats. If he can maintain that level of play, the Thunder will likely hoist the Larry O'Brien Trophy.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander defends a layup attempt by Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton during Game 4 of the NBA Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on June 13, 2025.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander defends a layup attempt by Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton during Game 4 of the NBA Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on June 13, 2025.
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Former NBA player reveals what Thunder must do in NBA Finals
After breezing past the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals 4-1, many thought the NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers would be a quick series. Indiana didn't get the memo, taking the first game of the series. They then split the two games in Indiana to send the series back to Oklahoma City tied two games apiece.
In the games they've won, the Pacers have had serious contributions from their bench. In Game 1, it was Obi Toppin's 17 points off 5-for-8 shooting from deep. In Game 3, it was the explosion of Bennedict Mathurin, scoring 27 points.
Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas detailed what the Thunder must do to win the series.
"It's the bench that's changing the game for the Pacers... It's a different feel when [T.J. McConnel comes in the game...," Arenas said. "If OKC wants to just win this series, they have to really pay attention to the second unit."
After winning Game 4, the Thunder are once again heavy favorites to win the NBA Championship at -520 at FanDuel Sportsbook, implying a probability of 83.87%. The Thunder also have home-court advantage back in their favor.
If the series goes to a full seven games, the Thunder will have the luxury of playing in front of their home fans at the Paycom Center. Game 5 is Monday night at 8:30 p.m.