Indiana Pacers vs
Oklahoma City ThunderPredictions & Preview

Pacers and Thunder set to face off in Game 1 of NBA Finals, with Oklahoma City favored by 9.5 points

Game 1 of the NBA Finals features a matchup between the Pacers and the Thunder. The Pacers recently defeated the Knicks to reach the Finals, while the Thunder advanced after beating the Timberwolves. The Thunder won both regular season games against the Pacers. Tipoff is at 8:30 EST on ABC. Oklahoma City is the betting favorite with a -9.5 point spread that has not changed. Read on for our Game 1 prediction and more information.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Pacers +324 | Thunder -410
• Spread: Pacers +9.5 (-110) | Thunder -9.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 231 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Oklahoma City will win straight-up is 80%.

Indiana vs Oklahoma City Stats

Indiana Pacers

The Indiana Pacers have defied expectations by making it to the NBA Finals after taking down tough opponents like the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and New York Knicks. Pascal Siakam was named MVP of the Eastern Conference Final, leading the team with impressive scoring and rebounding stats. Despite strong performances from Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner, it was Siakam who ultimately clinched the ECF MVP award. The team's offensive efficiency ranks 7th, while their defensive efficiency ranks 17th. Indiana is currently ranked 9th in the power rankings, with strong offensive numbers in shooting percentages and scoring averages, but weaker defensive statistics in allowing points and rebounds. Injuries have affected the team's lineup, but players like Aaron Nesmith, Andrew Nembhard, and Bennedict Mathurin have stepped up to contribute to the Pacers' success.

Oklahoma City Thunder Analysis

According to ESPNBet, the Oklahoma City Thunder are heavy favorites to win the NBA Championship, with the Pacers as underdogs. The Thunder have been dominating with the league's leading scorer and a top defense, going 29-1 against Eastern Conference teams this season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been a standout player, being the scoring champ and MVP, with a chance to win the Finals. The Thunder have strong offensive and defensive stats, ranking high in both categories. Key players like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams have been performing well in the playoffs, with a well-rounded lineup contributing to their success. The team has no significant injuries impacting their depth chart. The Thunder's offensive and defensive stats are impressive, with strong shooting percentages and rebounding numbers. The team's defense is particularly solid, ranking at the top in several categories.

Pacers Pose a Serious Challenge for Exciting Thunder Team

The excitement surrounding the Thunder team is palpable, however, a cautious approach is warranted when assessing their abilities against the Pacers, who have consistently outperformed expectations this season. Despite the Thunder's top ranking in the West, the Pacers have demonstrated their capabilities by defeating formidable opponents such as the Cavaliers and the Knicks. While the Thunder's defense has been commendable in previous matchups, it is important to note that they were facing teams with different strengths and weaknesses. The Pacers boast a lineup of sharpshooters who have been performing exceptionally well in the postseason, making them a formidable opponent. Players such as Siakam, Turner, Nesmith, and Nembhard have all displayed impressive shooting percentages from beyond the arc. With their ability to spread the floor effectively, the Pacers are poised to keep the game competitive. Therefore, it may be prudent to consider taking the Pacers with the points in this matchup.

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