Barry Lewis: Thunder in seven
This series will be closer than many anticipate and will go the distance as the puzzling national dislike for the Thunder increases. There won't be any 40-point blowouts on either side. The Thunder will need big performances from Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein to survive.
Juwan Lee: Thunder in five
The Pacers remind me of the 2011 NBA champion Dallas Mavericks — a deep, well-rounded unit that continues to beat more talented teams. However, OKC has greater talent and depth than the Pacers’ opponents in the East. The Thunder’s perimeter defense creates problems for Indiana.
Berry Tramel: Thunder in five
Thunder in four would make me look like I've drank the Kool-Aid. But I've drank the Kool-Aid. Indiana is a good team and a great story, but the Pacers made their mettle with a zombie Bucks team and then two foes (Cavs, Knicks) that don't guard you. The Thunder will guard you.
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Bill Haisten: Thunder in six
In Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals at Madison Square Garden, Indiana’s fourth-quarter comeback was amazing. It would take four games of truly amazing offense for the Pacers to conquer the Thunder. Not happening. Since an April 5, 2024 loss at Indiana, Oklahoma City has prevailed in 30 of its last 31 meetings with Eastern Conference opponents.
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