The NBA playoffs are only getting more intense! Round 2, Game 7 Indiana Pacers vs Oklahoma City Thunder Sunday, 3:30pm ET Can’t ask for a better game to bring an electric series to a close. After a postseason run that showcased the talent and determination of both teams, this season is destined for an exciting conclusion. Key performers Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are taking center stage. Fans will be waiting to see what team picks up that elusive third win, so highly sought after.
The clash follows a physical playoff series that has seen production swing wildly from one contest to the next. Jalen Williams has developed into a real star. In Game 5, he had a mind-blowing 40-point explosion, revealing his astronomical off-the-dribble shot-making prowess and star potential. Williams, once a poor man’s All-NBA sidekick early in his career, has looked like a star so far in the series. He has had an outstanding season, as he has averaged 31.0 points, scoring 26 points or more in each of his last three games. His momentum going into Game 7 is undeniable, and all eyes will be on him as everyone expects him to put on yet another show.
Oklahoma City’s home-court advantage would scare a high school football powerhouse from the state of Texas. It’s true – the fans create a charged atmosphere that excites the players and inspires them to bring their very best. As Game 7 unfolds, Williams is expected to capitalize on this support and deliver yet another high-scoring effort, solidifying his role as a key player in this critical matchup.
The Thunder’s Star Power
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who pulled in the league’s regular-season MVP last month, is only just rounding into form. His leadership and overall skill and play on the court have been paramount for the Thunder during this entire playoff run. Gilgeous-Alexander has elite tools. Gilgeous-Alexander single-handedly kept Oklahoma City competitive on defense last season. They’ve held opponents under 100 points in all six home playoff games, winning five of those by double digits.
Chet Holmgren epitomizes a key pillar of the Thunder’s overall plan going forward. With potential as both an All-NBA talent and a Defensive Player of the Year candidate, Holmgren’s presence on the floor can disrupt opposing offenses while contributing significantly to Oklahoma City’s scoring. With Game 7 around the corner, the impressive connection and chemistry between Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren might just decide who moves on.
Even with those strengths in their arsenal, the Thunder have suffered from self-inflicted wounds all series long. They’re giving up inferior shots when they’ve already locked in ten turnovers worth of pressure before even crossing the three-point line. They need to right this troubling trend if they hope to come away victorious in this pivotal game.
Pacers Look to Counter
The Pacers have to be the favorites to make this a legitimately close Game 7. Not when key players like Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton sweeten the deal with big performances on a daily basis. They outperform when it matters most! Should Indiana emerge victorious, there’s little doubt that Siakam and Haliburton will exert profound influence on the scoreboard. Both of them are likely to play a huge role in the team’s success.
Tyrese Haliburton has shown he’s made of tough enough stuff, as evidenced by him playing through a calf injury during must-win Game 6. Even when hamstrung by the strain, his effectiveness shone through. He’s going to be the key man for the Pacers as they try to find and attack any gaps in the Thunder’s defense. While Haliburton’s health will be a concern, his determination could inspire his teammates and energize the Pacers’ offense.
Andrew Nembhard was a big factor in Game 6. He scored his series-high 17 points and contributed four assists, as he shaped into a bigger role for his team. As Game 7 approaches, hopes are high. Nembhard will definitely be called upon again to improve his game, providing important scoring while facilitating plays. His clutch gene will not only be needed in tight games, but will be critical as Indiana looks to counter Oklahoma City’s stifling defensive tactics.
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