The Oklahoma City Thunder will attempt to level the 2025 NBA Finals on Sunday following a narrow loss in Game 1. The Pacers managed to secure a 111-110 win thanks to a decisive shot by Tyrese Haliburton. Notably, the Thunder made history this season as the first team in a decade to lose as a double-digit favorite in a Finals match.

Currently, the Thunder have a 15-5 record over their last 20 games, while the Pacers hold an 11-3 record in their previous 14 games.

Game 2 is set to take place at the Paycom Center, kicking off at 8 p.m. ET. The Oklahoma City Thunder are favored to win by 11.5 points, a slight increase from the initial betting line, and the total points projection is set at 228.5. Prior to placing any bets or making predictions on the Pacers vs. Thunder match, it’s advisable to check out insights from Matt Severance of SportsLine, who has an impressive record of 165-91 on his betting picks and has successfully returned over 33 units.

Why the Thunder Can Cover

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, playing point guard, delivered an impressive 38-point performance with five rebounds and three assists during Game 1. He has exceeded 30 points in eight of his last nine games and posted nearly a triple-double in a past playoff match against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Over the course of 17 postseason appearances, he has averaged 30.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.6 rebounds.

Additionally, forward Jalen Williams has been pivotal, scoring 17 points with six assists and four rebounds in Game 1. He had his playoff high of 34 points in a decisive Western Conference Finals match against the Timberwolves. Across 17 playoff games, he averages 20.2 points and 5.6 rebounds.

Why the Pacers Can Cover

Pascal Siakam, playing power forward, is fresh off a double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds in Game 1. He has also previously contributed 31 points in a key playoff win over the New York Knicks. In 17 playoff matches, he averages 20.9 points and 6 rebounds.

Meanwhile, Haliburton, the key player in the last game, scored a double-double as well, recording 14 points, with 10 rebounds and six assists. With an average of 18.5 points and 9.5 assists in 17 postseason starts, he remains crucial for the Pacers’ strategy.

How to Make Pacers vs. Thunder Picks

Matt Severance has locked in another confident against-the-spread pick for this matchup, leaning toward the Under total. However, an essential X-factor is identified that favors a specific side against the spread. For more details before committing your bets, be sure to check out his take.

For insights on who is likely to win in Game 2 and details about the influencing X-factor on the spread, visit SportsLine to find out more about the expert predictions that have boasted a return of over 33 units in total.