Indiana Pacers Survival Plan in Game 6: Can They Overcome Tyrese Haliburtons Hobbled State and Extend the Series?

As the NBA world eagerly awaits the highly anticipated Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers, the focus is on several key factors that will determine the outcome of the game. One of the most crucial aspects to watch is how the Pacers will score with a limited Tyrese Haliburton. Haliburton struggled in Game 5, suffering a right calf strain that will likely impact his performance in Game 6. His absence has been particularly acute in the playoffs, as the Pacers have scored 14 more points per 100 possessions with him on the court. If Haliburton is unable to play at full capacity, the Pacers will need other players to step up and create clean looks for others. This includes Pascal Siakam, Andrew Nembhard, T.J. McConnell, Bennedict Mathurin, and Myles Turner, who will need to shake off a shooting slump to contribute to the team's success. Another crucial factor is whether the Pacers can get OKC's offense back in check. The Thunder have been averaging 114 points-per-100 in the first three games of the Finals, which is 7.1 points-per-100 below their regular-season mark and 3.8 points-per-100 below what they'd put up through the first three rounds of the postseason. The Pacers' defensive pressure has been effective in limiting Oklahoma City's scoring, but if they can't hold them to one shot, they'll end up on the losing side. Lastly, the Pacers will need to find a way to make OKC ease off the gas and give them a chance to extend the series. The Thunder have shown resilience throughout this series, coming back from a 2-1 deficit to force a Game 6. If they can maintain their defensive intensity and continue to get contributions from players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, they'll be in good shape to close out the series in Indianapolis. As the game approaches, both teams are focused on executing their plans and making adjustments to their strategies. The Thunder are determined to avoid a winner-take-all Game 7 and show that they've learned the most valuable lesson of the postseason: winning is all that matters. The stage is set for an exciting and high-stakes Game 6 in Indianapolis, with both teams fighting for their championship dreams.