By each conceivable metric, the percentages are stacked closely in opposition to the Pacers in Recreation 7 of the NBA Finals.
First, there’s the historic precedent. Solely 4 street groups have ever gained Recreation 7, with dwelling groups going 15-4 in championship deciders.
Second, the latest traits favor the Thunder, who’re 10-2 at dwelling within the postseason and 7-0 after a loss since April 6, profitable these video games by a whopping margin of 17.3 factors.
It could be a daring transfer to select the Pacers to hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy at Paycom Middle this Sunday. Pistons legend and Corridor of Famer Isiah Thomas is among the many few keen to go in opposition to the grain.
“I am going with Indiana in an upset in Recreation 7,” he advised NBA TV. “I simply suppose the boldness they performed with, and possibly they shook the boldness of 1 or two of OKC’s gamers. And that is all you want in a seven-game collection … Indiana’s gamers, as a result of they do not do not rely upon only one man to get 25 factors, they have 5 or 6 guys who can get 15, 16, 17. They’re very snug in that vary.”
Thomas added that the Pacers’ equal-opportunity offense “will journey” in Recreation 7 when defenses key on sure matchups.
To Thomas’ level, the Pacers have an unbelievable eight players averaging double-digit points by six video games and 4 gamers averaging three or extra assists. Moreover, 4 of their 5 starters — Tyrese Haliburton, Aaron Nesmith, Andrew Nembhard and Myles Turner — have been web positives on the ground.
As compared, the Thunder have solely four players averaging double-digit points and simply two who report three or extra assists. Their heavy reliance on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams appeared to value them in Recreation 6, with not one of the function gamers stepping up when the co-stars had an off night time.
