2024/25 NBA Finals - Thunder at Pacers (Game 6)
The Thunder are just one win away from NBA Finals glory, but can the Pacers stop them in Game 6 on Friday? Here is a preview of the massive clash between the Pacers and Thunder on Friday morning.
Thunder at Pacers (OKC leads series 3-2)
The Thunder are heading into Game 6 against the Pacers with plenty of momentum after their recent 120-109 home win over Indiana. Oklahoma City’s star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been absolutely electric in these high-pressure moments, scoring 32 or more points in each of the Thunder’s last four playoff series closeout games. He’s also proven to be a reliable threat from beyond the arc, nailing two or more three-pointers in every Game 6 he’s played in the playoffs so far. Plus, Shai’s playmaking is top-notch - he’s recorded six or more assists in each of his previous four Game 6 appearances, showing he can both score and set up teammates when it counts.
Another key contributor has been Isaiah Hartenstein, who’s been consistent at creating opportunities for his teammates on the road, with two or more assists in 11 of the Thunder’s last 12 away games against Eastern Conference teams. This kind of support gives the Thunder multiple weapons to keep the pressure on Indiana.
Looking at the bigger picture, Oklahoma City has been solid this postseason, boasting an 8-3 record straight up over their last 11 games, and they’ve been a strong bet against the spread (ATS), going 4-2 in their last six matchups overall. They also have a good recent record versus Indiana, both SU (5-2) and ATS (5-2) in their last seven games against the Pacers, which suggests they have a mental edge.
That said, the Thunder have struggled a bit when playing away, posting a disappointing 1-8 ATS record in their last nine road games. That could be something to watch for if this game shifts into a tight battle or goes into the clutch moments.
Overall, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge and a confident supporting cast, the Thunder look well-positioned to push hard in Game 6 and potentially close out the series. They’ll be aiming to keep their momentum going, control the pace, and keep the Pacers at bay to avoid the pressure of a Game 7. It’s shaping up to be an exciting and intense matchup with a lot on the line.
The Pacers come into Game 6 as the 4th seed in the conference, hoping to turn things around after a tough 120-109 loss to the Thunder on the road. They know this is a must-win if they want to keep their championship hopes alive. Pascal Siakam has been one of their standout players lately, dropping 28 points along with 5 assists and 6 rebounds in that last game. He’s been a reliable playmaker too, recording four or more assists in each of Indiana’s last four outings, showing he’s not just about scoring but also creating opportunities for his teammates.
T.J. McConnell also played well in that loss, contributing 18 points on efficient shooting and helping out on the boards and with assists. One big question mark is Tyrese Haliburton, who’s been clutch at home this season—he’s scored 20 or more points in four of Indiana’s last five home games. But his status is uncertain because of a calf injury, and if he can’t go, that could really hurt the Pacers’ chances.
Despite the recent loss, Indiana has been solid overall, winning 12 of their last 18 games and showing they can handle the pressure. Their home form has been especially strong, with a 15-5 record, which is a key advantage heading into this game. They’ve also had the Thunder’s number in Indiana, winning six of their last nine home games against OKC. That kind of confidence at home will be crucial as they look to even the series and force a Game 7.
If the Pacers can get Haliburton back and maintain their usual energy on both ends of the floor, they’ll be a tough matchup. They’ll need to control the pace, limit turnovers, and make the most of their home crowd to turn the tide against a confident Thunder team. It’s going to be a battle, but Indiana’s recent form and home court advantage give them a real shot at pushing this series to the limit.
Stadium Record
Indiana are 15-5 in its last 20 games at home. Oklahoma City aer 3-6 in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Indiana.
Head to Head Record
The head to head is tied at 5-5 since 2023. the Thunder lead the NBA finals 3-2.
Best Bet
The injury to Haliburton is a real shame for the Pacers as their scoring potential has dropped and they've now given up 120+ pts in 2 of their last 4 games. However, their defence has been better at home and I think they'll be fired up to keep the NBA finals alive for a Game 7. So I like the chances of the Under as the best bet. The total has gone Under in 4 of Oklahoma City's last 6 games and the Thunder's last four road games against Eastern opponents have gone Under.
Same Game Multi
Unless the Pacers can turn things around on both sides of the court, I think the Thunder can close out the finals on the road. Shai is absolutely dominating this series and I don't see him slowing down. Haliburton is injured, which makes it tough for the Pacers in the key moments. OKC are 8-3 in their last 11 and 5-2 against the Pacers. Siakam has been impressive during the playoffs and I'll take him to get past 20 pts again. He's got 21, 20 and 28 pts in his last 3 playoff games.
