Game 4: The Thunder’s Last Stand or the Pacers’ Coronation?

The Stage Is Set

The NBA Finals have unfolded in a manner few anticipated. The Oklahoma City Thunder, once the overwhelming favorites, find themselves trailing 2-1 against the Indiana Pacers. Game 4, set in the raucous atmosphere of Gainbridge Fieldhouse, is not just another game—it’s a defining moment.

The Thunder’s Dilemma

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been nothing short of spectacular, yet even his brilliance couldn’t prevent the Thunder’s collapse in Game 3. The team’s late-game failures, marked by turnovers and a fatigued defense, have raised questions about their resilience under pressure.

Pacers’ Unexpected Surge

The Pacers, led by the poised Tyrese Haliburton and the explosive Bennedict Mathurin, have defied expectations. Mathurin’s 27-point performance off the bench in Game 3 not only secured a crucial victory but also etched his name in Finals history.

Betting Odds and Implications

Despite their lead, the Pacers remain the underdogs in the betting world. Oklahoma City is favored at -230 to win the series, while Indiana sits at +190. The odds suggest a belief in the Thunder’s ability to rebound, but the Pacers’ momentum cannot be ignored.

The Final Countdown

As Game 4 approaches, the question looms: Can the Thunder reclaim their dominance, or is this the beginning of a new era for the Pacers? The answer may well determine the fate of the 2025 NBA Finals.