First Quarter

As the Indiana Pacers prepare for their upcoming playoff clash against the Oklahoma City Thunder, they are keenly aware of the importance of setting a strong tone from the opening quarter. In recent games, the Pacers have shown a tendency to start slowly, as evidenced by their 20-point first quarters in two out of their last three matchups. This trend is something they will need to address if they hope to gain an early advantage over OKC.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JUNE 5: Chet Holmgren #7 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket during the game against the Indiana Pacers during Game Two of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 5, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Morgan Givens/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Thunder have demonstrated an ability to seize control early in games, with first-quarter scores of 26 and 29 points in previous encounters. The Pacers must focus on tightening their defense right from tip-off and look for opportunities to capitalize on fast-break points, an area where they've excelled with a high conversion rate recently.

Second Quarter

Moving into the second quarter, maintaining momentum will be crucial for Indiana. Historically, this period has been pivotal for them; however, they've struggled against teams like OKC who can put up big numbers quickly. The Thunder's ability to score heavily in this segment was evident when they posted 33 points against Indiana earlier.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JUNE 8: Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers block during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Game Two of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 8, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE(Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

For the Pacers, ball movement and efficient shooting will be key factors. Their recent performance shows promise with a field goal percentage hovering around mid-40s percent and impressive three-point accuracy at times reaching above 50 percent. Players like Tyrese Haliburton must continue orchestrating plays that exploit gaps in OKC’s defense while ensuring turnovers are minimized.

Third Quarter

The third quarter often serves as a turning point where adjustments made during halftime come into play. For Indiana, this means focusing on sustaining defensive pressure while enhancing offensive output—something they've managed well previously by scoring over 30 points consistently during this period.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JUNE 8: Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder handles the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers during Game Two of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 8, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

A critical aspect will be how effectively Myles Turner can anchor the defense inside the paint against OKC's aggressive drives and post plays. His shot-blocking prowess could disrupt Oklahoma City's rhythm significantly if executed well alongside team efforts that limit second-chance opportunities through solid rebounding strategies.

Fourth Quarter

In what promises to be an intense fourth quarter battle at Gainbridge Fieldhouse—a venue known for its electrifying atmosphere—the Pacers must harness home-court energy effectively without succumbing under pressure situations typical of playoff basketball finales.

Indiana’s bench depth could prove decisive here; contributions from players stepping up during clutch moments might tilt scales favorably towards them especially given past instances where bench scoring provided necessary boosts late-game scenarios leading victories such as one witnessed versus New York Knicks recently wherein bench tallied substantial points aiding overall triumph despite initial setbacks earlier phases contest itself!

Fans eager witness showdown between these formidable foes should tune ABC network June thirteenth eight-thirty PM Eastern Time cheer beloved team potentially witnessing another chapter written storied franchise history! Share article fellow enthusiasts keep conversation alive anticipation builds crescendo approaching game day!

Preview

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