Top 5 players to watch in the 2025 NBA Finals Game 1 between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder

The 2025 NBA Finals are underway, and this time it’s a different experience. Game 1 will be played on June 5 at the Paycom Center between the Indiana Pacers and the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. The emphasis is focused because Oklahoma City has yet to win a championship since relocating, while Indiana is searching for their first victory. Some players may grab the lead early in the series, and here are five to keep an eye on from the start.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the center of Oklahoma City’s championship run.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads his club into this first game as the league’s MVP, and he truly deserves the honor. He led the Thunder to an impressive 68-14 season, averaging 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game.

Furthermore, in the postseason, he has averaged 29.8 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.7 rebounds. Young’s ability to get a decent shot, dribble around teammates, and control the game has Indiana’s guards concerned.

Tyrese Haliburton is Indiana’s engine and emotional leader.
Tyrese Haliburton is the key to the Indiana Pacers’ rebirth. The All-Star guard has taken over, averaging 9.8 assists, 18.8 points, and 5.7 rebounds per game this postseason. In the Eastern Conference Finals, he improved his stats, averaging 21.0 points and assisted on 10.5 per game against the Knicks. If Indiana is to prevail, it will rely on Kyrie Irving’s excellent vision, fast decision-making, and shooting ability.

Pascal Siakam contributes championship experience to the Pacers.
Pascal Siakam’s case demonstrates why it matters. Siakam was chosen to aid Indiana’s youthful team in the playoffs, and he has performed admirably when it mattered the most. His ability to score inside, guard several positions, and space the floor allows him to harm opponents in a variety of ways. Siakam’s experience from winning a title in Toronto might make a huge difference for this young club.

Oklahoma City’s Jalen Williams is a budding two-way star, while Shai Gilgeous Alexander enters Game 1 as the league’s MVP, and he truly deserves it. He led the Thunder to an astounding 68-14 regular season record, averaging 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game. And it doesn’t end there—he’s been equally productive in the postseason, averaging 29.8 points, 6.9 assists, and 5.7 rebounds in 16 playoff games. His ability to create his own shots, cut past defenses, and control the pace makes him a major threat to Indiana’s backcourt.

Myles Turner is Indiana’s rim protector and defensive anchor.
Myles Turner’s ability to block shots is a significant reason why Indiana has performed well defensively in the playoffs. He alters the direction of shots, controls the boards, and extends the floor with his three-point shot. Turner’s paint defense will be critical for Indiana’s prospects in Game 1 against an explosive Oklahoma City offense.

Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals promises to be explosive. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton leading the charge, as well as key support from players Pascal Siakam, Jalen Williams, and Myles Turner, every play has the potential to make a difference. This clash is all about depth, youth, and passion—stay tuned.

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