New York Knicks v Indiana Pacers - Game Six
Source: Gregory Shamus / Getty
Five Bold Predictions Favoring The Indiana Pacers In The 2025 NBA Finals
The Indiana Pacers enter the 2025 NBA Finals as underdogs, but history has shown us that the biggest surprises often come from those least expected.
With their talented roster and unique style of play, the Pacers have plenty of tools to shock the basketball world.
Here are five bold predictions that could swing the NBA Final Series in Indiana’s favor.
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1. Tyrese Haliburton Delivers a Finals MVP-Worthy Performance
New York Knicks v Indiana Pacers - Game Six Source:Getty
Tyrese Haliburton has been the backbone of the Pacers’ offense, and he’s poised to elevate his game on the league’s biggest stage. Look for Haliburton to average double-digit assists while scoring over 25 points per game, leveraging his ability to control tempo and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His leadership and poise under pressure could be the most significant factor in tipping the scales Indiana’s way.
Impact: If Haliburton plays to this level, the Pacers’ offense becomes nearly unstoppable, forcing the Thunder to divert defensive resources away from other key players.
2. Pascal Siakam Outshines Oklahoma City’s Frontline
New York Knicks v Indiana Pacers - Game Six Source:Getty
Pascal Siakam, fresh off his Eastern Conference Finals MVP performance, will carry his momentum into the Finals. Expect Siakam to step up as a scoring and rebounding force, regularly breaking the 20-point mark against OKC’s defense. His Championship-winning experience with Toronto in 2019 will shine through, especially in clutch moments, making him a vital weapon against the Thunder’s elite defense.
Impact: Siakam could neutralize OKC’s significant height and rebounding advantage, particularly if he outmatches Chet Holmgren on the boards and in the post.
3. Indiana Wins the Transition Game
Indiana Pacers v New York Knicks - Game One Source:Getty
Few teams move faster or more efficiently than the Pacers in transition, and they’re set to run the Thunder out of their comfort zone. Indiana leads the playoffs in points scored in transition, and they’ll double down on this strategy to catch Oklahoma City’s defense on its heels. If the Pacers can generate easy baskets off turnovers and push the pace, they could take control of critical moments in the series.
Impact: By dominating in transition, the Pacers will not only rack up high-percentage baskets but also force OKC’s stars to expend extra energy on defense.
4. Myles Turner Becomes a Defensive Anchor
New York Knicks v Indiana Pacers - Game Four Source:Getty
While Myles Turner has often flown under the radar, his shot-blocking and defensive presence could be a game-changer in this series. Turner will not only protect the rim effectively against OKC’s slashers but also stretch the floor with his ability to knock down threes. If Turner limits Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s drives and provides timely offensive contributions, Indiana’s chances will skyrocket.
Impact: Turner’s defensive effort could be the key to slowing down OKC’s number one option, giving the Pacers a chance to focus on shutting down their supporting cast.
5. Bench Depth Becomes an X-Factor
Cleveland Cavaliers v Indiana Pacers - Game Three Source:Getty
Indiana’s bench has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the playoffs, and they’ll rise to the occasion in the Finals. Players like Bennedict Mathurin and Andrew Nembhard can provide crucial scoring bursts, while Obi Toppin and Jarace Walker could play pivotal roles in keeping the Thunder’s reserves in check. If the Pacers’ bench outperforms OKC’s, it could be the difference between a tightly contested game and a comfortable victory.
Impact: A strong showing from the bench ensures that Indiana’s starters stay fresh, giving them the edge in late-game situations and over the course of a long series.
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