NBA Finals 2025: Indiana Pacers vs Oklahoma City Thunder Game 3, Betting Odds & Prediction

The 2025 NBA Finals shifts to Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis for Game 3 on Thursday, June 12 (PST), with the series knotted at 1-1. After the Indiana Pacers stunned the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1, the Thunder responded decisively in Game 2, setting the stage for a pivotal swing game on the Pacers’ home court.

Series Status and Momentum:

The Thunder’s 123-107 victory in Game 2 showcased their championship pedigree and the MVP-level play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. They controlled much of the game, demonstrating their ability to adapt and execute after a surprising Game 1 loss. The Pacers, known for their relentless pace and comeback capabilities, will be looking to reassert themselves in front of their home crowd, a venue where they’ve had success in these playoffs (6-2 at home in the 2025 playoffs).

Key Storylines and Matchups:

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Dominance: SGA has been unstoppable, averaging over 30 points in the series so far, including a 34-point masterpiece in Game 2. The Pacers’ ability to contain him, or at least force him into tougher shots, will be paramount.
• Pacers’ Home Court Advantage: Indianapolis is hosting its first Finals game in 25 years, and the atmosphere will be electric. The Pacers thrive on momentum and the energy of their crowd. Can they translate that into a more consistent offensive and defensive effort?
• Tyrese Haliburton’s Impact: After a quieter scoring performance in the first two games, Tyrese Haliburton needs to be more aggressive in looking for his own shot while maintaining his elite playmaking. His ability to facilitate and get others involved will be crucial for the Pacers’ offensive flow.
• Pascal Siakam’s Bounce Back: Siakam had a somewhat inefficient Game 2. He’s known for bouncing back from off nights with aggressive, high-scoring performances. The Pacers will need him to be a consistent scoring threat.
• Thunder’s Bench Production: In Game 2, the Thunder got significant contributions from their bench, notably Alex Caruso and Aaron Wiggins. This depth provides a crucial advantage, and the Pacers will need their own reserves, like T.J. McConnell, to step up.
• Pace of Play: The Pacers want to push the tempo and get out in transition. The Thunder’s defense is formidable, and they excel at turning turnovers into easy points. Whichever team dictates the pace and limits turnovers will have a significant edge.
  
  

  PACERS vs. OKC #NBAFinals PREDICTION: THUNDER IN 7

  GAME 1: PACERS WIN (1-0)
  GAME 2: OKC WIN (1-1)
  GAME 3: OKC WIN (2-1)
  GAME 4: PACERS WIN (2-2)
  GAME 5: PACERS WIN (3-2)
  GAME 6: OKC WIN (3-3)
  GAME 7: OKC WIN (4-3) pic.twitter.com/C6Zlx9TUag

  — Geoffrey A. Fields (@Gmoney__23) June 5, 2025

Betting Insights:

• Point Spread: Pacers +5.5, Thunder -5.5
• Money Line: Pacers +180, Thunder -220
• Total Points: Pacers U 228.5, Thunder O228.5

Prediction:

This will be a fiercely contested game, with both teams understanding the importance of taking a 2-1 series lead. The Pacers will undoubtedly feed off the home crowd’s energy and look to play with their signature fast pace. However, the Oklahoma City Thunder have shown a consistent ability to lock down defensively and generate offense through their superstar in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

While the Pacers will put up a strong fight, the Thunder’s defensive intensity, combined with SGA’s unstoppable scoring and their capable role players, gives them a slight edge. Expect a tight first half, but the Thunder’s relentless pressure and timely scoring should allow them to pull away in the second half.

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