The Thunder will look to rebound in Game 2 of the Finals against the Pacers, now down by one in the series heading into Sunday.
Another 2025 NBA playoff game, another go-ahead tie or game-winner by Tyrese “The Moment” Haliburton. Indiana came away with a massive comeback in game one in Oklahoma City, where the home team is a dominant unit at their strength.
However, due to a interesting lineup decision, expect OKC to bounce back for game two. That will involve more minutes from Isaiah Hartenstein and less minutes of Chet Holgren potentially but Cason Wallace got the start. I don’t expect that to continue, as the Thunder should revert back to their old starting lineup.
Lock of the Game
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Oklahoma City Thunder
VS.
Indiana Pacers
(1-0)
Whether it’s at captain or as a utility player, SGA has to be a must in any showdown lineup. Even at his pricey game-high cost on DK, his average is high enough to warrant as a must-play.
Besides game three against the Timberwolves, SGA averages north of 40 fantasy points. He will get his one way or another, whether it’s high shooting volume or efficiency, OKC’s MVP shouldn’t be avoided in a likely bounce back spot.
Start ‘Em
Isaiah Hartenstein
Oklahoma City Thunder
VS.
Indiana Pacers
(1-0)
Although he has played under 20 minutes the last three games, including both Finals and Timberwolves series, the Thunder should adjust and play with two bigs or at least get the free agent signing involved more.
Hartenstein was a big part of their success and at his price point, he is worth a gamble in getting more minutes in a pivotal must-win game two for OKC.
Jalen Williams
Oklahoma City Thunder
VS.
Indiana Pacers
(1-0)
Jdub has to be a big part of the Thunder in order for OKC to tie the series up vs. the Pacers. Although he had down game to start the series, at his salary, he is most likely to get to the 40-50 fantasy points total from previous playoff series.
Sit ‘Em
Chet Holmgren
Oklahoma City Thunder
VS.
Indiana Pacers
(1-0)
Even if Chet could bounce-back, I see Hartenstein taking advantage at his salary over Chet at his. Game one from the Finals was his lowest point total since May and at his cost vs. Hartenstein, I rather take the gamble on the other center in OKC to maximize his value.
Bennedict Mathurin
Indiana Pacers
AT
Oklahoma City Thunder
(0-1)
Mathurin has been very productive for his minutes but so far this series and last in a game, he is also iffy on the minutes compared to other ancillary players that still play a massive part for Indiana. I think Toppin, Nembhard, Nembhard, Turner, and even Siakam might be better plays compared to those that showed up in game one of the finals.
Fade of the Game
Tyrese Haliburton
Indiana Pacers
AT
Oklahoma City Thunder
(0-1)
Hali is obviously “Mr. Clutch” but that doesn’t always lead to fantasy points. He still has many dud games and besides the game winner, was having a bad night game one. Tyrese Haliburton is essentially a coin flip in it he has a worthwhile game for fantasy or not. That type of production will make or break your lineup, but I’m leaning towards fading at his cost.
