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Kevin Pelton
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Kevin Pelton
ESPN Senior Writer
- Co-author of the Pro Basketball Prospectus series
- Former consultant for the Indiana Pacers
- Creator of the WARP rating and SCHOENE system
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Tim Bontemps
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Tim Bontemps
ESPN Senior Writer
- Senior NBA writer for ESPN.com, covering on and off-court developments
- Reports on trade deadlines, expansion, and MVP rankings
- Co-host of The Hoop Collective podcast with Brian Windhorst and Tim MacMahon
Following an electrifying six-week playoff journey, the NBA Finals will kick off on Thursday at 8:30 PM ET (ABC) with the Oklahoma City Thunder facing off against the Indiana Pacers. This series marks the start of a best-of-seven duel for both teams to clinch their inaugural NBA championship title—Oklahoma City previously took home an NBA title as the Seattle SuperSonics, while Indiana boasts multiple ABA titles. The upcoming Finals promises to add another new champion to the NBA, continuing a trend of competitiveness.
Basketball fans can expect a thrilling matchup: the Thunder, the Western Conference’s defensive powerhouse, will battle against the high-octane offensive strategy of the Pacers from the East. Both teams employ an aggressive, fast-paced play style aiming to exhaust their opponents.
As you gear up for this exciting series, we present our analysis of the top 20 players poised to impact the Finals, based on their performances throughout the 2024-25 season, the playoffs thus far, and projections for this pivotal clash.
The NBA’s reigning Most Valuable Player naturally leads our list. After propelling the 68-win Thunder on an impressive path through the playoffs, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander returns to the Finals for the first time since 2012. His ability to threaten at the rim and score mid-range makes him a challenging matchup for Indiana’s top wing defenders, Aaron Nesmith and Andrew Nembhard. The Pacers need to contain Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring to hold their defensive line.
After a slow start attributed to lingering hamstring issues, Tyrese Haliburton emerged as a standout performer since 2025 began, averaging 19.5 points and 9.7 assists over the last 39 games of the regular season while maintaining efficient shooting numbers. Haliburton’s acute playmaking saw him generate a league-leading 25.3 points through assists in the playoffs, yet he faces a challenging Thunder defense adept at controlling outstanding ball handlers.
Pascal Siakam, named MVP of the Eastern Conference Finals, brings valuable NBA Finals experience as a member of the 2019 Toronto Raptors champion team. Having transitioned seamlessly to the Pacers, his performance will be crucial for Indiana to keep pace in the series.
Chet Holmgren had a standout performance against the Timberwolves during the West Finals, showcasing his scoring ability alongside strong defensive contributions. His role against Indiana’s skilled offense will be pivotal as the Thunder look to stifle the Pacers’ sharpshooters.
Austin Reaves has emerged as a key player for the Thunder, contributing effectively off the bench thanks to his versatility and ability to guard multiple positions. Reaves’ defensive skills will certainly augment Oklahoma City’s already formidable backcourt.
As one of the playoff surprise performers, Aaron Nesmith delivered a game-changing showing in the East Finals and will need to maintain his 3-point accuracy to effectively guard the Thunder’s top scorers.
Myles Turner‘s offensive capabilities as a stretch center make him a strategic asset for the Pacers. His defensive prowess will also be vital in combating the Thunder’s aggressive scoring threats.
Isaiah Hartenstein‘s rebounding could prove decisive against a Thunder squad dangerous on the glass. He’s poised to be a game-changer during crunch time.
Luguentz Dort‘s defensive reputation earned him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive team, and he is tasked with defending Haliburton, who has struggled against him historically.
Andrew Nembhard has demonstrated remarkable growth, shooting dramatically better in the playoffs than during the regular season. His ability to contribute offensively will be essential against Oklahoma City’s aggressive defensive scheme.
Obi Toppin had a breakout performance in a game against his former team and will be expected to deliver consistent scoring amidst the Thunder’s intense pressure.
Ousmane Dieng, Oklahoma City’s 11th man this season, contributed effectively when called upon and will be looked to for energy off the bench during critical moments in the Finals.