Indianapolis (AP) – The Oklahoma City Thunder showcased their ability to bounce back in Game 2. Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers recognize the need to perform similarly in Game 3.
The NBA Finals will continue on Wednesday night with the series all tied up, shifting to Indianapolis for Game 3. This marks the city’s first Finals game in 25 years, and the Pacers are aware of their responsibility to respond after Game 2 was far from competitive.
This comeback potential is certainly within reach. The Pacers have not lost consecutive games in three months, making this an opportune moment to extend their winning streak.
“This is the biggest game of the year,” said Pacers forward Pascal Siakam.
While this sentiment holds true for any Finals scenario, it resonates especially in this case. Indiana executed their game plan effectively in Oklahoma City, winning and securing home-court advantage. Winning three games at home in the coming week could mean an NBA championship for the Pacers. A home loss, however, would quickly shift momentum back to the Thunder.
Nonetheless, the Pacers have shown considerable resilience. Much like the Thunder, who are 17-2 following a loss this season (including the NBA Finals), the Pacers have their own track record of bouncing back.
“We try to stay focused and not dwell on things,” stated Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton. “As NBA players, it’s easy to get discouraged, just like any basketball player.”
With the series tied 1-1, the team that wins Game 3 has an 80.5% chance of claiming the championship. It’s a pivotal game with high stakes.
“We need to keep improving as a group,” said Thunder guard and NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. “If we focus on our weaknesses, we’ll have a great opportunity to improve. Game 3 will be a great example of that.”
Halliburton’s Condition
After Game 2, Halliburton was seen limping and acknowledged issues with his lower body. While he shared few details, one thing is clear: he plans to play.
“He practiced and pushed through,” said Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle. “He has some discomfort, but he’s improving daily. It’s not something that he’ll make a big deal of. It’s a critical time for him.”
Home Advantage
The Thunder enjoy a significant home-court advantage at the Paycom Center. The Pacers are counting on the Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd to provide them with energy for Games 3 and 4.
The Thunder are well aware of what lies ahead.
“We must be prepared for the energy they bring,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “They have strong home performances. To compete effectively, we need to elevate our game.”
A Long-Awaited Moment
Indiana’s Miles Turner has played 346 home games with the Pacers, including playoffs, more than anyone else on the roster.
Game 347 will be his first in the NBA Finals.
“The city has been longing for opportunities like this. I can’t wait for the energy on Wednesday,” Turner stated. “It’s an exhilarating time for everyone to experience the finals in Indianapolis.”
Thunder’s Early Game Dominance
The Thunder won both the first and second quarters in Games 1 and 2, holding a 12-point lead at halftime in Game 1 and an 18-point lead in Game 2.
Indiana understands that they can’t afford to allow this trend to continue, as Oklahoma City boasts a 63-9 record when holding the halftime lead.
“It’s going to be another challenge to overcome,” Thunder guard Alex Caruso noted. “This place will be tough. The fans are excited to support the team. For us, sticking to the strategies we discussed is crucial for victory.”
Road Wins
Road teams have been winning approximately 44% of the time in these playoffs, marking the highest rate in 30 years. As of Wednesday, the road team record stands at 35-44.
The last time a team won on the road at a 45% rate in the playoffs was in 1995.
This statistic excludes the 2020 Covid-19 “bubble” playoffs, where games were held in one location in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, leading to a “road” win rate of .518 – 43-40.
Oklahoma City currently holds a 4-3 record on the road this postseason, while Indiana is 7-3.
The overall playoff record for road wins in a season dates back to 1966, with a success rate of 14-13, or 0.519.
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Source: apnews.com