The Oklahoma City Thunder hope to level the series against the Indiana Pacers in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Finals. The Pacers stunned everyone with a last-second win in Game 1, with Tyrese Haliburton hitting a buzzer-beater. In Game 1, Haliburton achieved a double-double, scoring 14 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and providing six assists.

The second game is set to begin at 8 p.m. ET at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. The betting odds have Oklahoma City as the favorites by 11 points, with an over/under of 228.5 total points. The Thunder have won 6 of their last 7 home games, but they have struggled with a 5-10 record against the spread in their last 15 overall games.

In the Game 1 defeat, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 38 points, which is noteworthy as this is the third highest in NBA history for a debut in the Finals. However, only three Thunder players scored in double digits, indicating the team needs more scoring from others to triumph in front of their fans. Chet Holmgren managed just six points in the last game, but he has surpassed 20 points in three of his previous five games.

For Game 2, Holmgren’s points total is set at 14.5, while Gilgeous-Alexander’s chances of recording a double-double stand at +230.

Basketball fans can now engage in this matchup thanks to the rising popularity of sports betting.

Basketball Betting Essentials

New bettors should start by checking the top sportsbooks for the most beneficial sign-up offers, which can include deposit matching and promotional bets. Shopping around different sportsbooks also helps in securing the best odds.

For newcomers, the primary types of bets include:

• Spread: The winning margin necessary for covering.
• Total (over/under): Total score prediction for both teams.
• Money line: A direct bet on which team wins.

Expert Guidance

For insight into betting strategies for the Pacers vs. Thunder series, turn to Larry Hartstein, who offers expert betting advice. It’s prudent for bettors to focus on a few key angles rather than spreading wagers too thin over many bets, especially when oddsmakers provide precise lines.

Fun with Prop Bets

Engaging prop bets are also available, allowing bettors to wager on specific player performances or game scenarios.

Parlay Betting

Parlay betting, where multiple bets are linked and all must win, adds excitement but is more challenging due to the need for each leg to win.

NBA Futures

Futures betting is available, offering wagers on season outcomes, including who wins awards or championships. Interested bettors can also wager on potential MVPs during the Finals.

With all this in mind, the knowledge gained from this betting guide aims to enhance the viewing experience of the 2025 NBA Finals.