This NBA Finals 2025 Game 2 preview begins with a shocker: the Indiana Pacers stunned the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 with a dramatic 111–110 victory. Tyrese Haliburton nailed a clutch shot with just 0.3 seconds left, silencing the home crowd and shifting the momentum in the Pacers’ favor.
Despite the loss, sportsbooks still favor the Thunder to win the series. BetMGM lists them at -350 to lift the championship trophy. As a result, Game 2 becomes a high-pressure situation for Oklahoma City, which now must respond quickly.
Thunder Still Favored in Game 2 Odds
Bookmakers have set the Thunder as 10.5-point favorites heading into the second game. The projected total points stand at 228.5, suggesting another high-paced and high-scoring matchup.
Interestingly, most bettors are siding with Indiana. According to BetMGM, 69% of spread bets are backing the Pacers to cover. One bettor even placed a massive $1.05 million wager on Oklahoma City to win the series at -700, before Game 1 tipped off.
NBA Finals 2025 Game 2 Preview: A Surprising Start
This NBA Finals 2025 Game 2 preview opens with a major upset: the Indiana Pacers stole Game 1 with a thrilling 111–110 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Tyrese Haliburton hit a game-winning shot with 0.3 seconds left, giving the Pacers their first Finals win since the franchise’s early playoff runs.
Despite the result, Oklahoma City remains the favorite to win the series. According to BetMGM, the Thunder are listed at -350 to claim the championship. As this NBA Finals 2025 Game 2 preview continues, it’s clear the pressure has shifted heavily onto the home team.
Expect a Faster and Cleaner Game 2
Sports betting analyst Michael Fiddle expects Game 2 to play out differently than the first. He believes both teams will cut down on mistakes, particularly Indiana, who committed 18 turnovers in just the first half of Game 1.
Additionally, Fiddle points out that both teams rank in the top three in pace. That, combined with fewer turnovers and more trips to the free-throw line, could push the final score above the betting total. Therefore, he recommends betting on the over once again.
Top Three Player Prop Bets to Watch
Pascal Siakam over 18.5 points
Siakam remains a consistent scoring option for Indiana. With defenses focusing on Haliburton, he should find more opportunities to score in isolation or transition.
Lou Dort over 14.5 points + rebounds + assists
Dort’s role in the Thunder lineup is steady, even as rotations shift. Given his two-way play and minutes on the floor, he has a solid chance of exceeding this line across multiple stats.
Total points over 228.5
Both teams play quickly and prioritize offensive efficiency. With better ball control and more fouls likely in Game 2, the total could easily go over the line again.
Avoid the Hype on Overplayed Props
Fiddle also urges caution when targeting popular picks, such as Isaiah Hartenstein’s rebound totals. Many bettors are overreacting to Oklahoma City’s rebounding struggles in Game 1. However, the Thunder are expected to keep their small-ball approach, which could limit Hartenstein’s effectiveness on the boards.
Conclusion: Game 2 Sets the Tone
Oklahoma City cannot afford to fall behind 0–2 in the series. On the other side, Indiana has a rare chance to take full control and keep the pressure on.
Here’s a recap of the best bets for Game 2:
- Total points over 228.5
- Pascal Siakam over 18.5 points
- Lou Dort over 14.5 points + rebounds + assists
If the point spread shifts to Pacers +11 before tip-off, that could also present value for bettors looking to back the underdog.
