The Oklahoma City Thunder emerged victorious in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, defeating the Indiana Pacers 123-107 to even the series at one game apiece. The victory came after a decisive performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led the Thunder with 34 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds, 4 steals, and 1 block. This performance was a direct response to the Pacers’ Game 1 comeback, where Tyrese Haliburton’s last-second shot had stunned the Thunder on the road.
The Thunder’s depth was a significant factor in the victory, as Alex Caruso and Aaron Wiggins provided critical offensive support. Caruso, in particular, was hot from three-point range, making 4 of his 8 attempts for a total of 20 points. Aaron Wiggins added 18 points on an efficient 6-of-11 shooting, complementing the team’s overall performance. The starting five also contributed, with Jalen Williams scoring 19 points, five rebounds, and five assists, and Chet Holmgren finishing with 15 points, six rebounds, and one assist.
The Pacers struggled to match the Thunder’s offensive production, especially from beyond the arc. The Pacers managed only 14 of 40 three-point attempts (35%), significantly below their usual efficiency. Despite this, Indiana managed to keep the game within reach, with every starting player scoring double digits. Tyrese Haliburton led the scoring for the Pacers with 17 points, but his three-point shooting was inconsistent, going 3 of 8. Myles Turner, Pascal Siakam, and Andrew Nembhard combined for just 3 of 13 from three-point range, which was a departure from their typical playoff performance.
The Thunder’s dominance was evident, with their largest lead reaching 23 points. The Pacers managed a maximum lead of just three points during the contest. The series now shifts back to Indiana for Game 3, where the Thunder will look to maintain their momentum and push for a series lead. The Thunder’s victory in Game 2 not only showcased their offensive firepower but also highlighted the importance of depth in high-stakes playoff basketball. As the NBA Finals continue, the pressure is on both teams to deliver their best performances, with the Thunder aiming to capitalize on their Game 2 success.