Pacers vs Thunder Game 3: Key Predictions, Injury Updates & Who Has the Edge Tonight?

June 14, 2025 | Sports Desk As the 2025 NBA Playoffs heat up, all eyes turn to Game 3 of the intense matchup between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder. With the series tied 1-1, tonight’s game is crucial for both teams. Fans are eager to see which squad will gain the upper hand in this Eastern Conference Semifinals clash. From injury updates to expert predictions, here’s your full Game 3 preview.

Series So Far: A Tale of Two Games

The series has already delivered drama, momentum shifts, and standout performances.

• Game 1: The Thunder edged out the Pacers in a 112–107 thriller, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropping 31 points and Chet Holmgren dominating the paint.

• Game 2: The Pacers roared back with a strong 119–102 victory, powered by Tyrese Haliburton’s 28 points and an impressive defensive performance by Myles Turner.

With the series now heading to Indiana for Game 3, the pressure is on both teams to make a statement.

Injury Report: Who’s In and Who’s Questionable?

Injuries can often shift the dynamics of a playoff game. Here’s the latest from both camps:

Indiana Pacers

• Tyrese Haliburton (Probable): After tweaking his ankle in Game 2, Haliburton is expected to suit up for Game 3. Team sources say he looked “sharp” in shootaround.

• Bennedict Mathurin (Out): Still sidelined due to a shoulder injury sustained late in the regular season.

Oklahoma City Thunder

• Jalen Williams (Questionable): Williams is dealing with a minor knee strain and is listed as game-time decision. His presence would be a big boost to the Thunder’s offensive spacing.

• Lu Dort (Active): Took a hit to the face in Game 2 but has cleared concussion protocol.

Both teams appear largely healthy, which sets the stage for an exciting, hard-fought battle.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Tyrese Haliburton

This star guard battle is at the center of the series. While Shai’s isolation scoring and late-game clutch plays are a known threat, Haliburton’s court vision and ability to control tempo have been pivotal for the Pacers.

Edge: Even

2. Chet Holmgren vs. Myles Turner

Chet has emerged as a two-way force in his playoff debut, but Turner’s shot-blocking and perimeter shooting give Indiana an edge in floor spacing.

Edge: Slight advantage to Indiana

3. Bench Impact

OKC's bench, led by Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins, outperformed Indiana in Game 1. However, Indiana’s bench surged in Game 2 thanks to T.J. McConnell and Obi Toppin.

Edge: Whichever team’s role players step up will likely win Game 3.

What the Coaches Are Saying

Pacers Coach Rick Carlisle:

“Game 3 is about discipline. Our defense needs to contain their second-chance points. If we do that, I like our chances.”

Thunder Coach Mark Daigneault:

“Indiana’s energy at home is something we respect. But we’ve been road warriors all season. This series is far from over.”

Home Court Advantage: Can Indiana Capitalize?

Bankers Life Fieldhouse will be electric. The Pacers are 6-2 at home in the postseason and historically perform well when coming off a win. Thunder, meanwhile, are a resilient road team, but Indiana’s crowd could tip the momentum early.

What the Stats Say

Statistically, the Pacers hold a slight offensive edge, while OKC has the upper hand in ball control and defense.

Fan Buzz & Social Media Reactions

On social platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fans are hyped:

• @HoopsFan2025: “Game 3 is gonna be WILD. Haliburton vs. SGA = must-watch TV.”

• @ThunderUpOKC: “All we need is one on the road. Let’s go Thunder Nation!”

• @PacersPrideIndy: “Back in Indy! Loud and proud tonight.”

Expect trending hashtags like #PacersThunder, #NBAPlayoffs, and #Game3Showdown to dominate social feeds tonight.

Expert Predictions: Who Has the Edge Tonight?

Here’s what analysts and oddsmakers are projecting for Game 3:

• ESPN's Zach Lowe: “Indiana by 5. They’ve figured out how to slow down SGA just enough, and Haliburton’s court control is key.”

• NBA TV’s Candace Parker: “Thunder will bounce back. I’m picking OKC in a close one.”

• Vegas Odds: Pacers favored by -3.5

Clearly, the experts are divided, which reflects how tightly contested this series has become.

X-Factors: Who Could Be the Surprise Hero?

• Indiana: Keep an eye on Obi Toppin, who’s quietly averaging 10+ points off the bench with high energy plays.

• Oklahoma City: Isaiah Joe’s perimeter shooting can stretch Indiana’s defense and open up lanes for Gilgeous-Alexander.

Final Thoughts: What to Expect Tonight

Game 3 will likely come down to execution in the final 5 minutes. Both teams are young, fast-paced, and hungry. If Haliburton continues to distribute at a high level and Indiana's defense holds, the Pacers could take a 2–1 lead. But if the Thunder's transition game clicks, Oklahoma City can steal one on the road.

Our Prediction: Pacers 112 – Thunder 106

Expect a back-and-forth contest that stays close through three quarters. Indiana’s depth and home-court energy may give them the final edge in the closing minutes.

Game Info

• Date: June 14, 2025

• Time: 8:00 PM ET / 5:30 AM IST (June 15)

• Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis

• Watch: ESPN / NBA League Pass

 Stay Tuned for Post-Game Reactions and Player Grades!

Follow for full post-game analysis, player ratings, and what this result means for Game 4.