Opinion
3 min read

Can the Indiana Pacers Thunder Past Oklahoma City at Paycom Center?

As the Indiana Pacers prepare to face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward their offensive prowess and secure another victory. The Pacers have been showing a mix of results lately, but there's a pattern that suggests they might just have what it takes to outplay the Thunder in their upcoming game.


INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 31:  The Indiana Pacers cheerleaders perform against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 31, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana.    NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Looking back at the Pacers' recent performance on March 2nd against the New Orleans Pelicans, despite a valiant effort and scoring 102 points, they fell short as they allowed 129 points. This loss highlighted some defensive vulnerabilities with an efficiency game score of 76.1 and a defensive rating of 124.7 points per hundred possessions. However, it's worth noting that they managed to draw fouls effectively with 17 fouls drawn and had a solid bench contribution of 59 points.


In contrast, on February 29th against the same Pelicans team but on home turf at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, IND showcased their ability to dominate by putting up an impressive 123 points with an efficiency game score of 110.9 and an offensive rating that soared to approximately 121 per hundred possessions – all while maintaining control for over three-quarters of game time.


INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 31:  Bennedict Mathurin #00 of the Indiana Pacers reaches for a loose ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 31, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana.    NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

The most telling performance came from their clash with Toronto Raptors on February 27th where despite losing by eight points (122-130), IND demonstrated resilience through lead changes and times tied during the match. They showed strength in second-chance opportunities by converting them into significant points (28) thanks to offensive rebounds.


Now turning our attention towards OKC; although they've had moments of brilliance this season, consistency has been elusive for them as well. Their recent performances suggest vulnerability that could be exploited by a determined Pacers squad looking for redemption after mixed outcomes in previous games.


INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 31:  Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder against Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 31, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana.    NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

The upcoming encounter promises excitement as both teams will undoubtedly bring intensity and determination onto the court. With IND's ability to create scoring opportunities from turnovers and second chances combined with OKC's fluctuating defense, fans could witness quite an electrifying showdown between these two contenders.


Pacers enthusiasts should mark their calendars for March 12th when Indiana will take on Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center starting at sharp at eight o'clock in the evening Eastern Time (ET). The action can be caught live on BSOK or BSIN networks – ensuring fans won't miss any moment of what is expected to be a captivating matchup filled with strategic plays and high-scoring potential.

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